The Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) has strongly refuted claims that KCSE examination marks are being illegally altered for monetary gain. In a statement issued on Thursday, December 5, KNEC urged the public to remain vigilant against fraudsters spreading false information.
Fake Posts and Scams
KNEC CEO David Njengere dismissed documents circulating online alleging that students could pay to have their marks changed. The documents, which purported to involve a collaboration with a KNEC official, were branded as fraudulent.
"Beware of fraudsters and stay alert," KNEC warned in response to the false posts that claimed, “Grade changing is currently ongoing. We have partnered with an official from KNEC on consultancy.”
Exam Marking Progress and Challenges
The denial comes amidst the ongoing marking of KCSE exams, which concluded on November 22. The Ministry of Education announced that the process would wrap up before the end of December. However, controversies have emerged during the marking process:
- Teacher Disputes:
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) threatened to withdraw teachers involved in marking, citing mistreatment. Sam Opondo, KUPPET’s Siaya Branch representative, claimed teachers were being ejected from marking centres on allegations of malpractice.- “Teachers are being humiliated, retired without cause, and treated like criminals,” Opondo stated.
- He warned of potential boycotts if KNEC does not address these grievances.
KNEC’s Stance on Integrity
KNEC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of national examinations. The council emphasized that strict measures are in place to prevent any malpractice, and all reports of wrongdoing will be investigated thoroughly.
Public Reassurance
As exam results are awaited, KNEC called on Kenyans to trust the examination process and ignore fraudulent claims that undermine the credibility of the KCSE system.