The Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations enter their fourth week today, Monday, with candidates sitting Mathematics Paper Two in the morning and Kiswahili Fasihi in the afternoon.
The examinations are now in their second week of compulsory theory papers, following oral, practical and low-candidature examinations that began on October 19.
According to the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) timetable, Mathematics Alternative A and Alternative B papers will run from 8am to 10.30am. Kiswahili Fasihi is scheduled for the afternoon session, from 2pm to 4.30pm.
Candidates are required to sit only one of the two Mathematics alternatives. KNEC regulations recognise Mathematics Alternative A (121) and Alternative B (122) as separate subject options.
The examination timetable provides for two hours and 30 minutes for both Mathematics Paper Two and Kiswahili Fasihi. However, examination durations vary across subjects and candidates with special needs may receive adjusted arrangements approved by KNEC.
Security measures tightened
Meanwhile, examination authorities have maintained heightened security measures to prevent malpractice and protect the credibility of the national examinations.
The government has introduced additional digital safeguards, including electronic smart padlocks on examination storage containers. The systems allow KNEC to monitor access remotely and detect attempts to open the containers before the authorised time.
Speaking in Nairobi on November 2, Basic Education Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa said the technology was intended to prevent unauthorised access to examination materials.
Candidates are also prohibited from taking mobile phones and other unauthorised electronic communication devices into examination rooms. The restrictions are part of wider efforts to curb cheating, impersonation and the unauthorised circulation of examination materials.
Under KNEC regulations, examination misconduct can attract serious penalties, including cancellation of results.
As the examinations continue, authorities face the task of ensuring that candidates across the country complete the papers under fair and secure conditions.
The 2026 KCSE written examination programme is scheduled to conclude on November 20, with Physics Practical.
