100 schools on high alert over exam cheating fears

RC Maalim Mohamed addresses the press after a meeting with security officers ahead of the exams. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Over 100 schools in 14 counties within the Rift Valley region have been put on red alert over possible exam cheating as learners prepare to sit for the national examinations.

Learners will sit for the Grade Six Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA), the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations within the next one month.

Speaking during a regional security and intelligence committee meeting, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner (RC) Maalim Mohamed said they have received intelligence over the schools.

"We know the notorious schools and although we will not condemn them now, they are on our radar during this examination period," said Maalim.

According to Maalim, an intelligence report received showed that some schools are scheming on how to cheat during the examinations.

However, he said they have and will put measures to curb exam cheating and will apprehend those responsible and punish them.

"We are watching all schools but the schools on our radar will have more attention. We will also ensure the Kenya National Examination Council's (KNEC) regulations are followed," he said.

Although Maalim noted that security has improved, he said that three schools in Baringo South in Baringo County, will be forced to merge during the examinations.

Pupils sitting for KCPE and KPSEA at Arabal and Kapindasum Primary Schools will have to do their examinations at Chemorongion Primary School after bandits vandalised the two schools, destroyed classes and set furniture and books on fire in an act of sabotage.

"We will ensure that pupils are protected during examinations. Each school will have two security officers to watch over them," said Maalim, adding that the schools will be rebuilt during the holiday.

The security team is also planning to use the National Police Reservists (NPR) to boost security during the examination.

The government is also planning a feeding programme for learners in drought-prone areas of Baringo, Laikipia, Samburu, West Pokot and Turkana counties.