Concerns Raised Over Mobile Phone Use Among Form Four Students in Kericho

In a recent address at Kabianga High School, Kericho’s County Director of Education (CDE), Julius Ngoneshi, expressed serious concerns regarding the increasing number of mobile phones in the possession of Form Four students. Ngoneshi warned that this trend could be a precursor to cheating during examinations, prompting an urgent call to action for both educators and parents.

The CDE noted that the proliferation of mobile phones among candidates is a worrying sign. “There are too many phones in the hands of Form Fours, sending the wrong signals of what they intend to do with them,” Ngoneshi stated. He urged school heads and staff to be vigilant in addressing this issue, as it poses a significant risk to the integrity of the examination process.

Ngoneshi highlighted numerous incidents where candidates were caught with mobile phones. He emphasized the need for immediate intervention to prevent potential cheating. “Our teachers sometimes face last-minute challenges when candidates try unethical means to pass their final examinations. Handling of mobile phones by students has been banned in all schools,” he said.

The CDE pointed out that it is often inconceivable for candidates to acquire such gadgets without parental support. He cautioned parents against falling for falsehoods that suggest examinations could be leaked through mobile phones. “Parents of some candidates fall into traps of falsehoods being peddled that there are some examinations which could be leaked through the phones,” Ngoneshi observed.

During his speech at Kabianga High School’s prayer day, Ngoneshi encouraged students to focus on thorough revision and maintain close consultation with their teachers. He emphasized that genuine effort and ethical preparation are the keys to success. “I take this opportunity to caution against such attempts. Revise thoroughly and consult your teachers closely. This will ensure a high transition to university,” he advised the students.

Ngoneshi also commended the efforts of Chief Principal Ezekiel Kurgat and his staff for their dedication to academic excellence. He praised their hard work in maintaining the institution’s leading position academically. “I thank Chief Principal Ezekiel Kurgat together with his staff for striving hard to put the institution in the lead academically,” Ngoneshi said.

The directive to ban mobile phones in schools is part of a broader effort to maintain the integrity of the examination process and uphold academic standards. Ngoneshi’s remarks highlight the importance of a collaborative approach involving educators, parents, and students to address this issue effectively.

As Form Four students prepare for their national examinations, the education community in Kericho faces the critical task of ensuring that all candidates adhere to regulations and maintain academic honesty. The CDE’s message underscores the necessity of vigilance and ethical conduct in the pursuit of academic success.

In conclusion, the rising number of mobile phones among Form Four students in Kericho is a cause for concern. The CDE’s call for increased vigilance and ethical preparation serves as a timely reminder of the importance of maintaining the integrity of the examination process. By working together, educators, parents, and students can ensure a fair and successful academic journey for all candidates.