He hailed teachers for their dedication, saying they deserve to be respected. "The teaching profession is a calling; nobody can compensate you adequately for what you do. It is a sacrifice. That's why we are calling for respect for our teachers."
Gachagua also said he would ensure the Nairobi Water and Sanitation Company drills a borehole for the school.
Prime Cabinet Minister Musalia Mudavadi also assured that the government will give needed support to ensure the exams run smoothly.
Mudavadi, who was speaking in Kilimani Primary School in Nairobi County, said "I am happy that I was here early today morning and the exam papers reached the school on time. I want to hope that this flawless exercise has been witnessed across the country as it has been here."
He said that even with the compressed school calendar, the candidates were hopeful of doing well.
"I know our pupils have been prepared adequately and they are ready for the task ahead. This is a stage that prepares them for a brighter future," he said.
Speaking earlier, Kenya National Examinations Council CEO David Njeng'ere had said results for the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) tests for Grade Six candidates would be released earlier than those of Class Eight candidates.
"The processing of KCPE is going to take a little more time and a little intense work, but we have put measures in place to ensure we fast-track not to lag behind the KPSEA," Mr Njeng'ere said.