KNEC Tightens Exam Security With Digital Locks and Vetted Invigilators
KNEC has announced far reaching measures to secure the 2025 national exams, as it reaffirms its commitment to the integrity of the process.
Speaking on Friday during the 2025 National Examination and Assessments Season launch, KNEC CEO David Njengere said the reforms are to prevent malpractice, enhance accountability and have learners sit exams in a safe environment.
Personalised Papers and Strict Accountability
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of personalised exam papers for all KCSE and KJSEA candidates. Each script will have a candidate’s name and index number. Students will sign both the paper and its counterfoil and supervisors will collect and submit the counterfoils separately for verification.
Dr. Njengere confirmed that the double collection of KCSE papers will continue, so that afternoon papers will only be released just before the exam starts to minimize the risk of leaks.
Improved Storage Security
KNEC has also increased exam storage capacity by adding 25 more containers, bringing the national total to 642. 250 of these will be fitted with smart locks as part of a pilot project. The smart locks will provide real time oversight of exam storage sites, so that monitoring can be tighter.
“To further strengthen security, officers manning these containers will undergo training on the use of digital locks,” Njengere said.
Deployment of Security Personnel
To ensure safety, at least two security officers will be deployed to each KCSE exam centre. For primary level assessments, officers will be stationed in select areas to support distribution.
Only vetted teachers with proven integrity will be deployed as invigilators and supervisors. Between October 6 and 9, all field officers, centre managers and supervisors will undergo mandatory sensitization sessions to ensure compliance with the new rules.
The council will also have a 24 hour command centre during the exam period to handle emergencies and coordinate activities.
Integration of School Based Assessments
The reforms will also extend to School Based Assessments (SBAs). Schools have been directed to upload results for Grades 4, 5, 7 and 8 which will contribute to the learners’ final scores under KPSEA and KJSEA.
Exam Calendar and Candidates
The 2025 exam calendar will run from October 17 to November 21. 996,078 candidates are registered for KCSE, 1,298,089 for KPSEA and 1,130,669 for KJSEA. In total 3,424,836 candidates will be sitting this year.
“These are not just about security; they are about protecting our education system and learners’ futures,” Njengere said.
Also Read: President Ruto Issues News Directive to All PSs Over Ksh50,000 Grant to Youths
KNEC Tightens Exam Security With Digital Locks and Vetted Invigilators