The first day of the written Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations began smoothly in Kisii County, with no incidents reported during the morning hours.
Speaking during the opening of an examination container at the Kisii Central Deputy County Commissioner's office, Deputy County Commissioner Gladys Nyongesa assured the public that adequate security and transport arrangements had been put in place.
She was accompanied by Kisii County Director of Education Philip Chirchir, other examination officials and secondary school principals.
"We have made sure all necessary plans to make the process of the examination here are in good order and I have instructed all my security officers to update my office of any shortcomings they may detect in advance for urgent action," she said.
KCSE candidature increases
Chirchir said the county had registered more candidates this year, with the number increasing from 38,817 in 2025 to 48,005 in 2026.
The increase of 9,188 candidates represents approximately 23.7 per cent.
He attributed the increase to concerted efforts by teachers, administrators and other education stakeholders who sensitised parents on the dangers of allowing their children to drop out of school.
"The increase is as a result of teamwork. Chiefs, teachers, parents and education officers have moved from village to village to ensure no child drops out. We have been telling parents that education is the only equalizer," Chirchir said.
He said school dropouts had far-reaching effects on society and the country at large.
He noted that dropping out of school could contribute to increased cases of child labour, early marriages, teenage pregnancies, drug abuse, unemployment and crime.
Chirchir added that school dropout perpetuates the cycle of poverty, denies the country skilled manpower and undermines the government's efforts to achieve 100 per cent transition and Vision 2030 goals.
He said the county had put in place school re-entry programmes and guidance and counselling initiatives to retain learners, especially girls.
He urged parents to take education seriously and support their children to complete their studies.
Officials warn against examination malpractice
Chirchir cautioned candidates, invigilators and supervisors against involvement in examination malpractice.
He said the Ministry of Education had prohibited examination personnel from using mobile phones within examination centres.
The main written papers began on Monday, November 2, with English Paper 1 in the morning and Chemistry Paper 1 scheduled for the afternoon, according to the county education officials.
Oral, practical and low-candidature papers began on October 19, while the 2026 KCSE examination period is scheduled to end on November 20.
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