The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) officials from Samburu County are urging the national government to enhance security for both teachers and students during the upcoming national examination period, particularly in light of recent banditry attacks.
During a press conference on Monday, KNUT National Chairperson Patrick Karinga emphasized the urgent need for protective measures as examinations commence this Tuesday.
“As we prepare to supervise the exams, our educators are understandably concerned about their safety.
We call on the government to ensure adequate security for our teachers during this critical time for our students,” Karinga stated.
He also highlighted the ongoing issue of delayed salary payments that needs attention.
Samburu East MP Jackson Lekumontare supported these calls, stressing the impact of external factors like flooding, which can hinder the delivery of examination materials.
He suggested that the government utilize more durable vehicles or even helicopters, similar to arrangements made during previous years.
“We need powerful vehicles to ensure exams reach students, regardless of road conditions,” he urged.
Meanwhile, in Busia County, County Commissioner Mwachaunga Chaunga cautioned examiners against engaging in cheating during the KCSE and KPSEA assessments.
He introduced new anti-cheating technology that can detect unauthorized photography of exam materials, warning that any violations would be reported directly to the Nairobi headquarters.
“Teachers must refrain from bringing phones into exam halls. Anyone caught trying to cheat will face serious consequences,” Chaunga declared.
Busia County Education Director James Ekalio echoed these sentiments, urging examiners to uphold integrity.
He warned against attempts to corrupt students with false promises of leaked exam materials, assuring that the Ministry of Education is working closely with relevant authorities to prevent any misconduct.
The national examinations are set to begin this week, with the KCSE starting on Tuesday and the KPSEA on October 28
