Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has warned the 1,048,355 candidates sitting the 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations against engaging in examination malpractice.
Ogamba said anyone found involved in impersonation, collusion or possessing unauthorised examination materials would face legal action.
Speaking on Monday, November 2, 2026, the CS said protecting the integrity of the national examinations remained a key priority for the government.
“Nevertheless, examination malpractice remains a concern, particularly through impersonation, through collusion, and possession of unauthorised material. Any person found in breach will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he said.
This year’s KCSE examination has attracted more than one million candidates for the first time in the history of the national examination.
KCSE records highest number of candidates
Ogamba said the 2026 examination had registered 1,048,355 candidates, representing a 5.27 per cent increase compared to the 2025 candidature.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba
“This year’s examination is historic. For the first time in history, the KCSE has more than 1 million candidates registered. This represents a 5.27 per cent increase over the 2025 candidature,” he said.
The CS added that this year’s examination was also significant because it was the second-last KCSE examination to be administered under the 8-4-4 education system.
Special arrangements for some candidates
Meanwhile, the government made special arrangements in parts of northeastern Kenya, including Moyale in Marsabit County, to ensure all candidates had an opportunity to sit the examinations.
The arrangements were put in place to prevent candidates in areas facing security challenges from missing the national examination.
The government said safeguarding the integrity of the exercise remained a priority as the country administered the examinations.