As the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams progress, the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Basic Education, Dr. Belio Kipsang, has assured the public that no significant cases of exam malpractice have been reported thus far. Addressing concerns about cheating, Dr. Kipsang emphasized that although there have been minor incidents, such as students attempting to use mobile phones, these have been swiftly handled by multi-agency teams deployed across the country.
Speaking on Friday morning in Kikuyu Sub-County during the distribution of examination papers, Dr. Kipsang praised the ongoing efforts by teachers, education officials, and security personnel to ensure that the exam environment remains free of any unfair practices. He specifically acknowledged the collaboration between the Ministry of Education and other agencies, which has played a critical role in upholding the integrity of the examination process.
Dr. Kipsang noted that the few reported cases of exam malpractice were being closely monitored and addressed. He reassured the public that those involved in misconduct, including teachers, would face disciplinary action after the conclusion of the exams. This serves as a reminder to all stakeholders in the education sector that the government remains committed to maintaining high standards of fairness during national exams.
In a broader discussion, the PS highlighted the importance of the role of parents and guardians in safeguarding the future of their children. He urged them to be vigilant, particularly with regard to girls, and to provide the necessary support to protect them from challenges such as teenage pregnancies. Dr. Kipsang acknowledged that such issues often hinder the academic and personal growth of young girls, and emphasized that community support is crucial in preventing these setbacks.
In line with this, Dr. Kipsang called on teachers to embrace a nurturing role in the lives of their students. Teachers are not only educators but also mentors who guide students in making safe and informed decisions that will positively impact their futures. He pointed out that this year, an increasing number of girls have had to sit for their exams in hospitals due to pregnancies. This, he believes, could have been prevented if there had been more proactive community involvement and better guidance for the youth.
On the issue of the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KEPSEA), Dr. Kipsang assured the public that the Ministry of Education is closely monitoring the ongoing court case concerning schools that failed to register their candidates. He made it clear that the Ministry would take appropriate action against any institutions found to be at fault, underscoring the importance of following official procedures in the education system.
Further reflecting the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for students, Dr. Kipsang mentioned a shift in security protocols at examination centers. This year, the Ministry of Education has deliberately reduced the security presence at the exam centers, moving away from a heavily guarded atmosphere that could intimidate students. Instead, the approach now aims to foster a more comfortable and less stressful environment, which Dr. Kipsang believes will help students perform to the best of their abilities.
In conclusion, Dr. Kipsang’s remarks serve as a reminder of the multifaceted efforts required to ensure that Kenya’s education system remains transparent and fair. From combating exam malpractice to addressing societal issues affecting students’ well-being, the Ministry of Education is working tirelessly to create an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. As the KCSE exams continue, the focus remains on ensuring a fair, supportive, and secure environment for all candidates.
