The tension surrounding the announcement of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination results is always palpable. While some candidates are lauded for their outstanding performance, there exists a quarter of individuals who receive grades that not only leave them disheartened but also lead to rejection by their own families.
The annual event marking the disclosure of KCSE results by the Education Minister is etched in the memories of Kenyans. Notably, those who receive an ‘E’ grade are stigmatized as failures, contributing to the societal perception of their academic standing.
Motivated by the personal experience of scoring an ‘E’ in the 2011 KCSE exams, Ayub Simba Njagi took the initiative to establish the Kenya ‘E’ Graders Association, assuming the role of its chairman. Recounting the challenges he faced after the demise of his mother, Njagi acknowledged his best score was a D- (minus) in English, which, when combined with the other failed subjects, resulted in the ‘E’ grade. He also mentioned receiving an ‘E’ in his KCPE.
Faced with adversity, Njagi underwent a period of introspection, researching how individuals with similar academic setbacks could navigate life successfully. Sharing his findings with like-minded individuals, they collaboratively drafted the association’s constitution and registered it. Membership into the association requires a one-time fee of Sh200.
In an effort to create opportunities for its members, the association reached out to the National Youth Service (NYS), seeking inclusion in NYS programs. Unfortunately, their request went unanswered. Undeterred, in 2018, the group devised a unique plan to present a portrait, football, and a wooden trophy to the then Education CS, Amina Mohammed. Their intent was to express gratitude and showcase the untapped potential within the community of ‘E’ graders.
