This article focuses on the minimum qualifications for CPS examination in Kenya. Certified Public Secretary (CPS) examination is administered by KASNEB. The examination qualifies one to become a certified secretary. A certified secretary is deemed competent in a number of key roles and responsibilities such as board services, governance, compliance, administration, public policy, ethics, integrity, communication and records management.
CPS Levels
1. 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.
2. Intermediate Level
- Company law.
- Public sector governance, policy and administration.
- Meetings, compliance and administration.
- Financial markets and specialised institutions.
- Corporate governance and ethics.
- Research, consultancy and advisory.
3. Advanced Level
- Strategic management.
- Finance for decision making.
- Governance and compliance audit.
- Boardroom dynamics.
- Research project.
Minimum Qualifications for CPS Examination in Kenya
One is required to register as a KASNEB student to sit for the CPS examination. The candidate needs to meet the following qualifications;
- Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with an aggregate of at least C+ (plus) provided the applicant has obtained a minimum grade of C+ in both English and Mathematics.
- KASNEB technical or professional examination certificates.
- A degree from recognised institutions. Exemptions may be granted to holders of degrees, diplomas and certificates from recognised universities, polytechnics, other institutions of higher learning and other examination bodies in East Africa.
- Such other certificates or diplomas as may be approved by KASNEB and other examination bodies in East Africa.
Registration Requirements for Certified Public Secretaries (CPS)
- Persons holding diplomas, degrees or other professional qualifications can apply to KASNEB for exemptions in some exams.
- Qualified persons who wish to register as members are required to register as members are required to apply through the Registration of Certified Public Secretaries Board (RCPSB).
- Members who desire to practice are required to obtain a practicing certificate issued by RCPSB, after meeting the prerequisite requirements, which among other things include being members of the Institute of Certified Secretaries in good standing for at least two years.
KASNEB Contacts
Head Office: KASNEB Towers, Off Hospital Road, Upperhill, Nairobi.
Phone: 020 492 3000/ 020 271 2640/ 020 271 2828/ 020 492 3000.
Email: info@kasneb.or.ke.
