Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced that for the first time, KNEC is piloting the digital padlocks in 250 examination storage containers nationwide.
According to the Education ministry, the high-tech locks are linked to the KNEC command centre, enabling a real-time tracking of when each container is opened and closed; a move to curb exam malpractice.
“These locks are linked to the KNEC command centre, allowing real-time tracking of the exact time each container is opened and locked,” said Ogamba.
In accordance with the heightened security measures, all individuals within the examination centres are required to surrender their mobile phones immediately upon the distribution of examination papers.
“The national police service will continue to oversee security for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), while education officials and school managers will handle security for the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) under a school-based arrangement,” CS Ogamba said on Monday.
The CS also announced the introduction of personalized examination papers, which feature each candidate’s name and a unique random number. This measure aims to ensure fairness in the marking process.
“Candidates will write answers directly in the question booklets. After completion of the exam, the identification section is detached and packed separately, ensuring fairness and eliminating bias,” stated CS Ogamba.
For seamless transition, KPSEA and KJSEA materials will be collected once daily at 6.00 am, while KCSE papers will be collected twice daily; at 7.00 am for morning sessions and 12.00 pm for afternoon sessions.
The 2025 examination marks the first national assessment for Grade 9 learners. Grade Six pupils will sit for the KPSEA, while Grade Nine learners take the KJSEA exam.
KJSEA learners will be tested in twelve learning areas over 6 days, while KPSEA candidates will cover five subjects over three days.
KPSEA exams will take place from October 27 to 29, while KJSEA exams will be conducted from October 27 to November 3, 2025.
