Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has warned candidates, teachers and examination officials against malpractice as the 2026 national examinations and assessments begin, saying the government will not tolerate any attempt to compromise their integrity.
Ogamba cautioned those involved in administering the exams against leaking papers, colluding with candidates or breaking regulations. He said anyone who tries to undermine the credibility of the exercise will face serious consequences, and urged officials to act professionally and follow the guidelines.
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has registered 3,634,846 candidates for the 2026 season. They are spread across the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) with 1,380,463 learners, the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) with 1,206,028, and the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with 1,048,355.
The assessments are scheduled to run from October 19 to November 20.
KNEC has introduced extra safeguards, including digital smart padlocks on examination storage containers that let the council monitor when they are opened and closed. The government has also installed 48 more examination and assessment containers in sub-counties, raising the national total from 653 to 701 to improve storage and distribution.
The measures are meant to prevent impersonation, unauthorised access to papers, collusion and the use of prohibited electronic devices.
The larger candidature puts more pressure on logistics and personnel, and will require close coordination among examination officials, security agencies, teachers and administrators.
Authorities have also raised concern about disruptions from heavy rains and promised to coordinate government agencies so that candidates are not disadvantaged.
Education stakeholders have been urged to support learners while protecting the credibility of the exams. The government says strict adherence to the rules is essential so that results reflect candidates' abilities and certificates keep public confidence.
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