The Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) theory examinations commenced on Monday morning, with significant incidents reported in Meru County that have affected candidates during this crucial time.
In the early hours of November 4, a male candidate from a school in Tigania West tragically passed away just hours before the exams were to begin.
Simultaneously, two female candidates in labor were admitted to a Meru hospital for delivery.
“Around 12:00 AM, we lost a male candidate from Tigania West.
At the same time, two expectant students were taken to Meru Hospital for delivery,” confirmed a regional administrator.
“We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.”
During a media briefing about the exam distribution in Meru County, the administrator expressed condolences for the tragic events and highlighted the participation of adult candidates, including 151 senior adult students, with 12 male inmates among them.
These candidates are set to take the exams across five centers.
The administrator reiterated the Ministry of Education’s directives, urging all personnel involved in the examination process such as center managers, supervisors, invigilators, and police officers to follow established guidelines strictly to prevent misconduct and malpractice.
“All officials have been briefed on their responsibilities, and any involvement in examination malpractice will lead to prosecution,” the administrator warned, underscoring the importance of allowing candidates to achieve results after years of preparation.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba also called on exam supervisors to take measures against cheating, assuring that the government will monitor the situation closely.
He noted that this year’s examination papers feature technology to detect tampering, which will alert the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) headquarters in Nairobi.
Additionally, school officials are prohibited from bringing mobile phones to examination centers.
The Ministry plans to use social media for reporting any suspicious activities during the exams, allowing for immediate action.
Offenders will face prosecution in newly established courts designed to swiftly address examination malpractice.
