Machakos County: Twelve students from Kitonyini High School in Machakos County have reportedly been barred from sitting their remaining Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination papers after allegedly being found in possession of mobile phones.
The candidates were suspended on Friday, November 13, following an incident that reportedly violated examination regulations set by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC).
However, details surrounding where the students were allegedly found with the devices remain unclear. It has not been established whether the phones were discovered inside an examination room or elsewhere within the school compound.
12 KCSE candidates suspended over mobile phones
The incident occurred hours after the government announced that the national examinations were progressing smoothly across the country.
According to education officials, the students’ alleged possession of mobile phones contravened KNEC regulations, which prohibit candidates from having unauthorised electronic communication devices at examination centres.
The candidates have consequently been barred from taking the remaining examination papers as authorities address the reported breach.
The development comes amid heightened efforts by the government and examination authorities to prevent cheating and other forms of examination malpractice during the 2026 KCSE examinations.
Julius Ogamba issues stern warning against KCSE examination malpractice
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba had previously warned candidates, teachers and other individuals involved in the examination process against violating examination regulations.
Speaking during the opening of the KCSE examinations, Ogamba said the government had put measures in place to ensure the national examinations proceeded with minimal challenges.
“The government shall have no mercy on anyone who engages in any examination offences or malpractices,” the CS stated.
His remarks reflected the government’s tough position on examination irregularities as thousands of candidates across the country sat their national examinations.
What KNEC rules say about mobile phones and other prohibited materials
KNEC guidelines prohibit candidates from possessing mobile phones and other electronic communication devices at examination centres.
The restrictions also cover books, revision notes, loose papers and other unauthorised materials that could give candidates access to information during examinations.
Examination officials who carry mobile phones are required to switch them off and keep them in secure locations away from examination rooms.
Other restrictions include:
- Calculators: Candidates may only use approved non-programmable calculators in subjects where they are permitted, including Mathematics and Physics.
- Bags: Handbags, briefcases and backpacks are prohibited inside examination rooms.
- Written materials: Books, notes and loose papers are not allowed in examination rooms or within candidates’ reach.
- Electronic devices: Mobile phones and other unauthorised communication devices are prohibited at examination centres.
The incident at Kitonyini High School adds to the scrutiny surrounding examination administration as authorities seek to maintain the integrity of the national assessment.
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