Official backs bill calling for creation of Knec rival

Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers Branch Chairman Zablon Awange has thrown his weight behind the Basic Education (Amendment) Bill, 2014.

The bill by Tinderet MP Julius Melly gives the Education Cabinet Secretary powers to create another examiner to rival the Kenya National Examinations Council (Knec).

"This is a good idea which is long overdue. It will eliminate Knec's monopoly and improve education standards in the country," Awange said.

He called on MPs to urgently debate and approve the Bill to make it operational.

"Knec has been characterised by challenges like examination leakage and gradual erosion of credibility. The Bill is timely and will see the examination body improve in the face of competition," he said.