Entry Instance

HTTP 200 OK
Allow: GET, PUT, PATCH, DELETE, HEAD, OPTIONS
Content-Type: application/json
Vary: Accept

{
    "id": 729703,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/729703/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 244,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Hon. M’uthari",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 1576,
        "legal_name": "Joseph M'eruaki M'uthari",
        "slug": "joseph-meruaki-muthari"
    },
    "content": "Thank you, Hon. Temporary Deputy Speaker. I rise to support this very important amendment to the KNEC Act. Amendments proposed here are important because they clarify the process for nullification of examinations. We are aware that examinations are very important because they assess the suitability and capability of students. Credibility of examinations is as important as having a clear process. This amendment Bill provides more clarity and gives opportunity for a credible examination that is professionally conducted and at the same time it protects the rights of individuals who are involved. At times, there could be a process like what happened last year. We know what happened in last year’s KCSE and the Kenya Certificate of Primary Examination (KCPE). Something like that can happen where very many pupils and students are condemned and their lives are shattered. When this happens, it is to the disadvantage of their lives. We need a process that is clear. It appears that in this Republic we have a serious challenge because majority of people want to follow shortcuts; they are not willing to work as would be expected of them. These malpractices happen and when they do, they dent the credibility of our education system. We have also realised that there are people in this country who glorify material things. We have seen what has been happening of late. Individuals of high standing in the society have forged documents. Sometimes they chest-thump even when they are in the wrong. We cannot justify failure because people have resources and they can buy their way out. This should be discouraged at all costs. At the end of it all, integrity, honesty and hard work should be appreciated. We should not praise the principle that the end justifies the means. It states that it does not matter the route that one takes as long as one gets money; they can even buy academic papers. This is wrong. We need to have in place a strict mechanism that will enable us to follow up on people’s academic credentials. We have laws, but I am afraid that the laws have been unable to bring up upright people. You see, we cannot legislate on matters trust. All in all, it is only through clear and transparent processes that it will be possible to build trust in our systems. I believe within our Constitution, we have very clear values stated under Article 10 and Chapter 6 on Leadership and Integrity. However, we are still treated to dishonesty during examination conducted by the KNEC. People do not seem to care about the underpinning values and principles. We have to ask ourselves what the problem is. What is it that we are inculcating into our children? What do they make of values? What is of essence to their lives? If we answer these questions correctly, then we will be in a position to develop the culture of doing the right things at the right time. I am happy that this particular amendment brings out the concept of appeal. Somebody who feels aggrieved and the Council renders a decision or verdict against them can appeal to the proposed tribunal for justice. That is an important thing. I support this Bill, but I must note that we have a long way to go as Kenyans. We have to learn and train our children to have values and virtues. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor."
}