The Certified Public Secretary (CPS) examination in Kenya is a prestigious qualification overseen by KASNEB, designed for individuals aiming to become certified secretaries. These professionals play crucial roles in board services, governance, compliance, administration, public policy, ethics, integrity, communication, and records management.
CPS Levels and Subjects
The CPS examination is structured into three levels:
- Foundation Level
- Management principles and practice
- Communication skills and records management
- Introduction to law and governance
- Principles of accounting and taxation
- Human resources management
- Information communication technology
- Intermediate Level
- Company law
- Public sector governance, policy, and administration
- Meetings, compliance, and administration
- Financial markets and specialized institutions
- Corporate governance and ethics
- Research, consultancy, and advisory
- Advanced Level
- Strategic management
- Finance for decision-making
- Governance and compliance audit
- Boardroom dynamics
- Research project
Minimum Qualifications for CPS Examination
To be eligible for the CPS examination, candidates must:
- Have a Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with an aggregate of at least C+ (plus), including a minimum grade of C+ in English and Mathematics.
- Hold KASNEB technical or professional examination certificates.
- Possess a degree from recognized institutions. Degree, diploma, and certificate holders from recognized universities, polytechnics, and other higher learning institutions, as well as other East African examination bodies, may receive exemptions.
- Meet the criteria set by KASNEB for other certificates or diplomas deemed acceptable.
Registration Requirements for CPS
Candidates with relevant educational qualifications may seek exemptions for certain exam papers through KASNEB. To practice as a Certified Public Secretary in Kenya, one must:
- Register with the Registration of Certified Public Secretaries Board (RCPSB).
- Obtain a practicing certificate from RCPSB, provided they have been members of the Institute of Certified Secretaries in good standing for at least two years.
KASNEB Contact Information
For more information on the CPS examination and registration process, contact KASNEB:
- Location: KASNEB Towers, Off Hospital Road, Upperhill, Nairobi.
- Phone: 020 492 3000 / 020 271 2640 / 020 271 2828 / 020 492 3000
- Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
Becoming a Certified Public Secretary in Kenya through KASNEB is a pathway to a prestigious and rewarding career in various sectors. Meeting the minimum qualifications and completing the examination successfully positions candidates as competent professionals in their field.








