Over 1 million candidates begin KCSE written exam as Ogamba assures country of credibility
The Mt Kenya Times 
CS Education Ogamba Migos during the launch of KCSE at Borabu Deputy County Commissioner’s Office. Photo/Elizabeth Angira
By: Elizabeth Angira
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has officially launched the main written papers for the 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination, assuring the country of a credible, secure and fair process.
Addressing the press after witnessing the opening of the KNEC examination container at the Borabu Deputy County Commissioner’s Office in Nyamira County, the CS said today marks a significant moment for candidates, their families and teachers after years of preparation.
The 2026 KCSE season had earlier commenced on 19th October with oral, practical and low-candidature papers. Today, candidates sat for English Paper 1 in the morning and Chemistry Paper 1 in the afternoon. The examination will run until Friday, 20th November 2026 as per the KNEC timetable.
CS Ogamba revealed that this year’s candidature is historic, with more than one million candidates registered for the first time in the history of KCSE.
According to the CS, a total of 1,048,355 candidates have been registered this year, compared to 995,860 in 2025 and 965,172 in 2024. This represents a 5.27 per cent increase over last year, demonstrating the growing scale of the national exercise.
The examination is being administered in over 10,000 centres across the country. The CS said the Government has put in place close coordination between the education sector, national administration and security agencies to ensure the exercise is conducted in an orderly manner.
He further noted that the 2026 KCSE is significant because it is the second-last examination under the 8-4-4 system of education. The final cohort under the system is expected to sit the examination in 2027 as the country fully transitions to Competency-Based Education (CBE).
“The 8-4-4 system has for many years prepared generations of Kenyans who have contributed to this country in public service, business, education and many other fields,” Ogamba said.
On inclusivity, the CS said the Ministry through KNEC will continue to give special attention to candidates with disabilities, those who are unwell and those affected by emergencies to ensure no candidate is disadvantaged.
Regarding weather challenges, the CS acknowledged that the exams are taking place during the October to December rainy season. He said the Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast above-average rainfall in most parts of the country, associated with the El Niño phenomenon, which could cause flooding and affect access to centres.
“We are working closely with KNEC, the Ministry of Interior and other relevant agencies to monitor weather conditions and coordinate interventions where challenges arise. Our priority is to safeguard candidates and examination personnel,” he said.
On exam malpractice, CS Ogamba said the Government has strengthened the security of examination materials, significantly reducing the risk of leakage. However, he warned that impersonation, collusion and possession of unauthorized materials remain a concern.
He singled out mobile phones as the greatest threat to examination integrity and reiterated that possession or use of phones by candidates and examination officials during exam sessions is strictly prohibited.
“Any person found in breach will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he warned.
The CS also commended KNEC, the Teachers Service Commission, teachers, centre managers, supervisors, invigilators, education officers and security personnel for their dedication in managing the massive exercise.
He also thanked parents, guardians and communities for supporting the candidates throughout their schooling journey.
As the candidates complete secondary education, CS Ogamba affirmed the Government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for progression to universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and other pathways for further learning and work.
“I wish all candidates success in the examination. The Government remains committed to ensuring that the effort invested by candidates, teachers and families over the years is respected,” he concluded.
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