Three candidates sitting the 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations have died in separate incidents, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has confirmed.
In a statement on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Mr Ogamba said two of the candidates died after falling ill, while the third was reportedly murdered at her family home. He named them as Conjestina Achieng of Alaru Central Mixed Secondary School in Rachuonyo West, Homa Bay County; Cornelius Kiplagat Rotich of Katebee Secondary School in Turbo, Uasin Gishu County; and Vivianne Adhiambo Owiti of Dhene Secondary School in Gem Wagai, Siaya County.
Ogamba said Conjestina fell ill while sitting her examinations on Monday, November 2, and died after being rushed to hospital. Cornelius died at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital on Tuesday, November 3, after sitting his Mathematics paper in the morning. Vivianne was reportedly murdered at her family home on Friday, October 30, before the main written examinations began. A suspect linked to her killing is in police custody as investigations continue.
The CS conveyed the Ministry's condolences to the bereaved families, friends, teachers and school communities.
The Ministry acknowledged the efforts of education and health officials in facilitating examinations for candidates receiving treatment in hospitals and other medical facilities, so that candidates with health challenges are not disadvantaged or denied the opportunity to complete their examinations.
The KCSE has also faced security challenges in Moyale Sub-County, Marsabit County, following clashes along the Kenya-Ethiopia border. Authorities relocated candidates from two examination centres to safer locations to protect learners and examination officials, and the government said the arrangements will let affected candidates continue sitting their papers safely.
Ogamba warned candidates, parents and the public against individuals and online groups claiming to possess KCSE examination materials. He urged anyone with credible information on irregularities to report directly to the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) through the toll-free numbers 0800 721 410 and 0800 724 900.
The CS also raised concern over absenteeism, revealing that about 13 candidates had been reported missing in the Nairobi region. He directed education officials, police officers, chiefs, assistant chiefs and the Nyumba Kumi network to help trace them and establish the reasons for their absence.
Reader Discussion (0)
Sign in to comment