Under the 8-4-4 system, which the government is phasing out, the Kenya Certificate for Primary Education (KCPE) is a crucial national test. It allows students to transition to high schools and later pursue various careers in institutions of higher learning.
This partly explains why the Ministry of Education announced that Standard Eight learners who had registered for the 2023 KCPE exams but failed to sit would get a second chance in January 2024.
“The council shall organize for KCPE candidates who had registered but were unable to sit their exams, to do so after 30 days,” said Kenya National Examination Council CEO David Njeng’ere.
However, even with the government’s 100% transition policy from class eight to secondary schools, every year, thousands of learners drop out for various reasons.
So, what are the career options for students who do not go beyond KCPE? This article explores some of the jobs that are ideal for someone whose academic journey ends in class 8.
Why KCPE Matters
The Kenya Times, spoke to a higher education research expert, Dr. Lucy Wakiaga on the relevance of the KCPE certificate in the job market.
“Kenya determines basic education to be at the Form 4 level. KCPE matters, it’s one of the basics for the job industry.
However, if dealing with older persons, prior learning experiences can also be taken into account but there has to be a framework for gauging these alternative paths of work experience,” Dr. Wakiaga explained.
Also Read: Family Bank Announces Form 1 Scholarships for KCPE Students
Notably, the government in 2023, took an initiative to certify Jua Kali artisans with experience in their respective fields.
In an overview, Nyeri National Polytechnic like other polytechnics have courses for Kenyans with a KCPE Certificate.
For instance, Carpentry and Joinery, Gypsum Technology, Masonry, Painting and Decoration, Plumbing, Tile Fixer are some of the courses that one could pursue.
According to their website, the institution offers courses that are open to all regardless of their previous education levels.
However, according to Dr. Wakiaga, a first degree is still important since as times keep changing, requirements change too.
“Nowadays, completing high school and going to college is a given. Jobs are increasingly asking for a first degree and a masters as an added bonus.”
“However, care should be taken to not allow the employers to skew the job market. For instance, asking for a master’s qualification for a job that only requires a bachelor’s degree,” she noted.
Jobs one can do with a minimum of KCPE Certificate
- Security officers
Security guards play a crucial role in maintaining order in various settings. They are responsible for patrolling premises, monitoring activities, and intervening in case of any disturbances or security breaches.
Class eight leavers can find employment as security guards in some companies provided, they meet the physical fitness criteria, age and have a clean criminal record.
Nonetheless, a certificate of good conduct is mandatory for this job.
- Waiter/Waitress:
The hospitality industry offers a range of opportunities for class eight leavers. Waiters and waitresses are in high demand in hotels, restaurants, and cafes.
They are responsible for taking orders, serving food and beverages, maintaining a clean and presentable dining area, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
In Nairobi, individuals with strong customer service skills and the ability to work long hours can secure waiter/waitress positions even in five-star establishments.
Noteworthy, depending on the class, location and target clientele, some restaurants hire waitresses and waiters with certificates, diplomas or even degrees.
- Untrained Guard:
Small businesses and informal establishments often hire untrained guards for security purposes. These guards are typically deployed to protect homes, shops, kiosks, churches, and farms.
Also Read: KNEC CEO Addresses Millions Received from KCPE Results SMS
While formal training is not mandatory, physical fitness and vigilance are essential qualities for this job.
- Cook:
Class eight leavers can find employment as cooks in schools, offices, and other institutions that provide food services.
While becoming a chef requires specialized training, starting as a cook can open doors to career advancement opportunities.
With experience and dedication, individuals can pursue professional training to become chefs.
- Mortician:
Morticians work in mortuaries, handling the deceased and preparing them for burial or cremation. This job requires a strong emotional disposition and the ability to handle sensitive situations.
Class eight leavers can secure mortician positions if they possess the necessary empathy and mental fortitude.
- Messenger Using Boda-boda
Messengers play a vital role in delivering parcels, documents, and other items between locations.
They are often employed by courier services, offices, and other businesses that require efficient delivery solutions.
With a primary school certificate, individuals can easily secure messenger positions.
Notably, with the advent of technology, traditional messenger jobs have been phased out. Today, office administrators, secretaries and customer care representatives need college education.
- Sales and Marketing Executive:
The sales and marketing field offers dynamic and rewarding career paths for individuals with strong communication, persuasion, and interpersonal skills.
Class eight leavers can pursue sales and marketing executive roles in various companies, promoting products and services to potential customers. This can work well where the products are not technical.
- Supermarket Attendant:
Supermarkets rely on attendants to maintain order, ensure product availability, and prevent shoplifting. They are responsible for stocking shelves, assisting customers, and monitoring the checkout process.
Class eight leavers can find employment as supermarket attendants, providing a stable and customer-oriented work experience.
But supermarket attendants need soft skills like excellent communication and patience to thrive.
- Driver:
Driving is a versatile career option that requires a valid driving license and familiarity with traffic rules.
Many drivers on Kenyan roads have completed primary education and obtained their driving licenses through accredited driving schools.
With a primary school certificate and driving skills, individuals can secure driving jobs in various sectors, including transportation, logistics, and delivery services.
- Turnboy/Manamba/Conductor
Turnboys, also known as manamba or conductor, play an important role in public transportation, assisting bus drivers and ensuring smooth passenger operations.
While advanced training is not required, physical fitness, attentiveness, and the ability to handle customer inquiries are essential qualities for this job.
It is important to note that while KCPE certificate holders can do these jobs, because of the complex nature of industries, and the integration of sectors, most employers want staff with formal education.
