Ogamba Warns Examination Officials Against Mobile Phones

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has issued a stern warning to personnel overseeing the ongoing 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, prohibiting them from possessing or using personal mobile phones during examination sessions.

Ogamba said mobile phones pose a significant threat to the integrity of national examinations, warning that anyone found violating the regulations would face disciplinary action and possible prosecution.

The CS reiterated that both candidates and examination personnel must comply with the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) regulations governing the use and possession of mobile phones during examinations.

Speaking on Monday, November 2, 2026, at the Borabu Deputy County Commissioner's office in Nyamira County, where he witnessed the opening of an examination container, Ogamba emphasised the government's commitment to protecting the credibility of national examinations.

He warned that examination malpractice, including impersonation, collusion and possession of unauthorised materials, disadvantages candidates who have prepared honestly.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the government, working with KNEC and other relevant agencies, has strengthened the security of examination materials to minimise cases of examination leakage and early exposure of question papers.


More Than One Million Candidates Sitting KCSE

The 2026 KCSE examinations have attracted 1,048,355 candidates, making it the highest number of candidates registered for the national examination in Kenya's history.

The figure represents an increase from 995,860 candidates in 2025.

The main written examinations commenced on November 2, with English Paper One scheduled for the morning session and Chemistry Paper One in the afternoon.

The examinations are expected to continue until November 20, 2026.

Ogamba also addressed concerns over the heavy rains being experienced in different parts of the country, noting that the Ministry of Education was working closely with KNEC, the Ministry of Interior and other government agencies to monitor weather conditions and coordinate interventions where necessary.

He assured Kenyans that arrangements were being made to support candidates who may experience disruptions, including those living in areas affected by flooding.


Government Reaffirms Commitment to Examination Integrity

The Education CS further assured candidates with disabilities, those who are unwell and learners facing emergencies that appropriate arrangements would be made to ensure they are supported throughout the examination period.

He thanked parents, guardians and communities for supporting candidates throughout their education journey, wishing the 2026 examination cohort success.

The 2026 KCSE examination is also significant as it becomes the second-last examination under the 8-4-4 education system, with the final cohort expected to sit the examination in 2027 as Kenya continues transitioning to Competency-Based Education (CBE).

The government says it remains committed to ensuring that the examinations are conducted fairly, securely and without malpractice.