As the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams commenced on November 4, the government has rolled out stringent measures to combat examination malpractice. With a record 965,501 candidates registered, the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has introduced innovative strategies aimed at ensuring the integrity of the examination process.
Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba accompanied by security officers holding a sample of Exam Papers; Courtesy Photo
One of the most significant changes this year is the personalisation of examination papers. Each candidate’s paper will now feature their name, index number, and school details. KNEC Chief Executive Officer David Njengere explained this initiative, stating:
“This measure is expected to boost exam security by anonymising answer scripts during the marking process. The KCSE question papers will be personalised for every candidate.”
Students In Class Writing Exams; Courtesy Photo
This approach is designed to prevent impersonation and other forms of cheating that have plagued previous examinations. Njengere further elaborated on the marking process:
“At the end of each paper, the part with candidates’ details will be torn off and packed separately to guard against examiners identifying the candidates while marking.”
In addition to personalisation, KNEC has banned mobile phones for all examination officials, including supervisors and invigilators. This decision aims to minimise any potential misconduct during the exams. Njengere stated:
“No phones will be allowed during the opening of the exam papers or while the exams are in progress. Phones will be secured in local desks under the supervision of a security officer, with the centre holding the key.”
The government has also taken steps to ensure that candidates in conflict-affected areas can sit for their exams safely. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba assured that adequate security measures have been put in place. He remarked:
“We have ensured that learners have been taken to new examination centres where there are adequate security measures like in GSU camps.”
Ogamba’s commitment extends to ensuring that even those affected by natural disasters, such as floods, are accommodated for their examinations. He emphasised:
“We will have those who plan to aid examination cheating arrested and arraigned in court.”
The collaboration between various government agencies has been crucial in preparing for this year’s exams. Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang highlighted this coordination:
“We assure everyone that we are prepared as a government to ensure this exam goes smoothly and delivers well for our children as a team.”
The extensive security measures include deploying police officers to each examination centre and coordinating with local security teams. Kipsang noted:
“Our deputy county commissioner is with us so they can rally all our colleagues in the security sector.”
The introduction of these strict rules reflects a broader effort by KNEC to enhance the credibility of national examinations. Njengere pointed out that past practices, such as printing extra question papers, have been eliminated:
“This time there will be no extra papers because we have personalised them all.”
This shift aims to address loopholes exploited in previous years and holds individual candidates accountable for any cheating attempts. Njengere stated:
“What we are saying is that we shall personalise the examination papers so that each candidate will have their details already printed.”
Furthermore, KNEC has implemented a rotation system for supervisors and invigilators to prevent conflicts of interest at examination centres. Director of Staffing at the Teacher Service Commission, Antonina Lentoijoni, confirmed this policy:
“They will be required to declare any affiliations with the examination centres where they will be assigned.”
The overall objective of these measures is not only to deter cheating but also to create a conducive environment for all candidates. The government has urged students and parents alike to focus on preparation rather than worry about potential irregularities.
As the KCSE exams progress over three weeks, Ogamba’s message remains clear:
“Cheating is a thing of the past.”
With these comprehensive strategies in place, stakeholders hope for a successful examination period that reflects true academic achievement among Kenyan students. The commitment from both KNEC and government officials underscores a collective desire for integrity in education, paving the way for future generations.