The 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations begin today, Monday, November 2, with 1,048,355 candidates, the first time the number has crossed one million. The written papers will run until November 20, 2026.
The examinations begin as authorities warn against scams in which fraudsters reportedly target parents and teachers on social media and other platforms, promising access to examination papers in exchange for money.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has cautioned parents and teachers against falling for such schemes. He said security agencies are monitoring individuals and networks suspected of trying to compromise the examinations.
He warned that those involved in examination fraud risk prosecution, and that teachers found taking part in malpractice could also face professional disciplinary action.
The government has tightened security around examination materials. Police officers have been deployed to guard examination storage containers and escort papers to examination centres. Extra security personnel, specialised vehicles and helicopters have also been assigned to areas with insecurity or difficult terrain.
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has introduced additional controls to reduce opportunities for malpractice, including smart padlocks on examination containers that are monitored from its headquarters.
KNEC Chief Executive Officer Dr David Njengere has identified mobile phones as one of the biggest challenges in the fight against cheating. He warned that candidates and examination officials will not be allowed to have the gadgets during examination sessions.
According to the examination timetable, the opening day features English Paper 1 in the morning and Chemistry Paper 1 in the afternoon.
The KCSE is taking place as Kenya moves from the 8-4-4 system to the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum. Authorities have urged parents, teachers and candidates to reject shortcuts and let learners show their abilities through honest effort.
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