University Student Arrested for Sitting KCSE Exam After Being Paid 20K

A university student in Nairobi is among twelve people arrested across several counties for exam malpractice as the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) entered its third day. The suspect was caught impersonating a Form Four candidate after reportedly receiving KSh 20,000 to sit the exam on the student’s behalf.

How Did the KCSE Impersonation Happen?

According to police, the university student was arrested alongside five invigilators, a centre manager, and a supervisor linked to the cheating scheme. Investigators believe the group collaborated to help the impersonator access the exam room undetected.

In Migori County, two teachers believed to be members of the Board of Management, along with a centre manager and supervisor, were also arrested over similar allegations. Authorities say all suspects are now assisting police with ongoing investigations.

Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding exam integrity, warning anyone attempting to cheat. “I continue to warn Kenyans, please allow the students to sit the exams. For instance, there are cases in Nairobi where five or so people were arrested impersonating the student, when we have indicated that this year’s papers are individualised with actual photos of students. So when you send someone else, they will be caught,” said the CS.

Where Else Have KCSE Cheating Cases Been Reported?

Despite increased vigilance, incidents of early exposure and impersonation continue to surface. In Nyamira County, police and Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) officials arrested all invigilators and supervisors at Itembe D.O.K Secondary School after Chemistry Paper Two was found circulating online before the scheduled exam time. The leaked papers carried identifiable security features meant for the school, confirming their authenticity.

Authorities confiscated 11 mobile phones from the centre, and those arrested have since recorded statements. Other exam-related offences were also reported in West Pokot, Kisii, and Nyakach, further highlighting the challenge of maintaining exam credibility nationwide.

In total, 27 cases of malpractice have been reported since Monday, according to officials monitoring the ongoing exams. Security agencies and KNEC teams continue to step up surveillance across examination centres to ensure that this year’s tests remain credible and free from interference.

The Ministry of Education maintains that while the arrests underscore persistent attempts to cheat, the introduction of enhanced security measures, including individualized exam papers with student photos, will make impersonation increasingly difficult.

By Modester Nasimiyu