- To bolster their efforts, the Ministry of Education is actively monitoring social media platforms for any signs of cheating and is prepared to take immediate action against websites claiming to offer access to examination papers.
The Kenyan government is intensifying its efforts to combat examination malpractice as the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) main exams begin nationwide. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has launched a comprehensive campaign aimed at preserving the integrity of the examination process, with 965,501 candidates registered across 10,754 centers.
During the official launch of the exams in Kibera, Nairobi, Ogamba issued a stern warning to anyone contemplating actions that could undermine the examinations. “I have this morning overseen the distribution of the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education papers at the Kenya National Examinations Council’s Container at the Kibra Deputy County Commissioner’s Offices,” he stated.
He made it clear that anyone involved in exam malpractice—whether student, teacher, parent, or government official—will face arrest and prosecution.
To bolster their efforts, the Ministry of Education is actively monitoring social media platforms for any signs of cheating and is prepared to take immediate action against websites claiming to offer access to examination papers.
“The government has implemented various innovative approaches to curb malpractices and irregularities,” Ogamba explained. These measures include personalizing examination papers and securing mobile phones in examination centers during testing.
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In addressing rumors about leaked exam materials, Ogamba reassured the public that all examination papers are stored securely. While preliminary papers, such as Home Science and Computer Science, were administered last week, the main examinations commenced with English and Chemistry on Monday. This year’s exams are being conducted under new regulations, including the mandatory rotation of supervisors at examination centers every week.
To further protect the integrity of the exams, containers holding examination papers will be opened daily at 7 a.m. under strict supervision, preventing any early exposure to the materials. Additionally, exam officials are prohibited from using mobile phones during the tests, with all devices secured until the end of the examination period.
In response to security concerns in regions like Tana River, the ministry has relocated candidates to safer venues, including GSU camps. They are also addressing the needs of candidates affected by floods, ensuring that access to examinations is not compromised.