Govt tightens security to curb cheating in 2026 KCSE examinations

The government has intensified security and surveillance measures to safeguard the integrity of the 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, warning individuals involved in examination malpractice that they risk prosecution.

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said security agencies were closely monitoring individuals and networks suspected of attempting to compromise the examinations through paper leaks, impersonation, collusion and the sale of fake examination papers.

With more than one million candidates registered for this year's KCSE examinations, the government has raised concerns over fraudsters targeting anxious parents and teachers with claims that they can obtain examination papers before they are administered.

Omollo cautioned parents and teachers against sending money to individuals advertising purported examination leaks on social media and other communication platforms, saying such schemes were designed to exploit families while putting candidates' academic futures at risk.

He maintained that the government would not allow individuals seeking quick financial gains to undermine investments made in the education sector.

The PS also urged teachers to uphold professional ethics and avoid illegal arrangements that could jeopardise their careers and the future of learners.

Officials warned against malpractice

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba separately warned examination centre managers, supervisors, invigilators and other officials against engaging in activities that could compromise the credibility of the national examinations.

Ogamba said all officers entrusted with administering the examinations were expected to observe strict professional standards and discharge their responsibilities with integrity.

He warned that anyone found participating in examination irregularities would face criminal or administrative action.

To strengthen security, police officers have been deployed to guard examination storage containers and escort examination materials to designated centres.

The government has also deployed additional security personnel, specialised vehicles and helicopters to areas experiencing insecurity or difficult terrain to ensure examination papers reach their destinations without disruption.

Contingency arrangements have also been put in place to address challenges arising from heavy rainfall and flooding, including relocating candidates from areas considered unsafe to alternative examination centres.

KNEC cautions candidates

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has cautioned candidates against examination malpractice, warning that those found involved in irregularities risk having their results cancelled.

KNEC Chief Executive Officer David Njengere said teachers and other examination officials found facilitating cheating would also face disciplinary and legal consequences, including action through the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).

The government says the measures are aimed at ensuring fairness and credibility in the national examinations as the country continues implementing reforms under the Competency-Based Education system.