More than one million candidates across Kenya have today begun their 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, marking an important milestone in the country's education sector.
A total of 1,048,355 candidates are registered for this year's examinations, the highest candidature since the introduction of KCSE. The figure represents a 5.27% increase from the 995,860 candidates who registered in 2025.
The written examinations kicked off on Monday morning with English Paper 1, while Chemistry Paper 1 scheduled for the afternoon session.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba witnessed the opening and distribution of examination materials at the Borabu Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner's Office in Nyamira County before visiting St. Kizito Nyansiongo Boys Senior School to monitor the exercise.
The CS assured the country that authorities have intensified security measures to safeguard examination materials and prevent irregularities, including impersonation, collusion and possession of unauthorised materials.
"The Government through KNEC and its partners has strengthened the security of examination materials, significantly reducing the risk of leakage and early exposure," he said.
"Our priority is to safeguard candidates and examination personnel while ensuring that any disruption is addressed promptly and that affected candidates are supported in accordance with KNEC arrangements," he added.
The examinations are being administered in more than 10,000 centres countrywide and are expected to conclude on November 20, 2026.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has also cautioned parents, teachers and candidates against fraudsters claiming to sell examination papers, warning that examination malpractice carries serious consequences.
This year's KCSE is particularly significant because it is the second-last examination under the 8-4-4 education system, with the final cohort expected to sit the examination in 2027 as Kenya transitions to Competency-Based Education.
As the nationwide exercise gets underway, candidates have been urged to remain discipline, confident and focused while parents and teachers provide the necessary support.
