THE KENYA NATIONAL EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL
BRIEFING AND SENSITIZATION NOTES FOR FIELD OFFICERS INVOLVED IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE 2026 KPSEA; KILEA, KJSEA; KPLEA AND KCSE EXAMINATION
1.0 SALUTATIONS/OFFICERS EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE MEETINGS
1.1 Regional Directors of Education (RDEs), where applicable;
1.2 TSC Regional Directors, where applicable;
1.3 County Directors of Education (CDEs), where applicable;
1.4 TSC County Directors, where applicable;
1.5 Sub-County Directors of Education (SCDEs);
1.6 TSC Sub-County Directors;
1.7 Sub-County Quality Assurance & Standards officers (QASOs);
1.8 Curriculum Support Officers (CSOs);
1.9 Sub-County Examinations Officers (SCXOs);
1.10 Heads of Institutions presenting candidates for the 2026 KCSE examination;
1.11 Heads of Institutions presenting candidates for the 2026 KPSEA/KILEA and KJSEA/KPLEA;
1.12 Supervisors for 2026 KPSEA; KILEA; KJSEA; KPLEA; and KCSE examination;
1.13 Representatives of Teacher Associations and Unions.
2.0 PREAMBLE
2.1 On behalf of the Governing Council and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), KNEC, the Council records its appreciation for the support accorded by the Field Officers and Centre Managers towards the preparations in place for administration of the 2026 National Assessments and examination.
2.2 KNEC considers it necessary to engage and empower all those involved in the conduct and management of the process, and share all the information that will be critical for day-to-day operations in 2026.
2.3 The main objectives of the Briefing and Sensitization session are to:
2.3.1 provide a platform for stakeholder engagement;
2.3.2 disseminate information on the innovations in place for 2026; and
2.3.3 address any emerging issues before commencement of the process.
2.4 The Briefing sessions will therefore focus on key information regarding the following processes:
2.4.1 Dispatch of materials from KNEC to Distribution Centres;
2.4.2 Daily collection of materials from the Distribution Centres (containers);
2.4.3 Actual administration of assessments/examination in the Centres (schools);
2.4.4 Handling of question papers, answer sheets and scripts; and
2.4.5 Security of Examinations and Assessments.
2.5 The key timetable dates are as follows:
Table 1: Field administration dates for 2026 National assessments/examination
| Examination / Assessment | Rehearsal Date | Administration Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5.1 KCSE Orals, Aurals, Practical and Low candidature papers | Friday 16th October, 2026 | Monday 19th to Friday 30th Oct. 2026 |
| 2.5.2 Compulsory / large candidature papers | Friday 16th October, 2026 | Monday 2nd to Friday 20th Nov. 2026 |
| 2.5.3 KPSEA | Friday 23rd October, 2026 | Monday 26th to Wednesday 28th Oct. 2026 |
| 2.5.4 KJSEA | Friday 23rd October, 2026 | Monday 26th to Friday 30th Oct. 2026 |
| 2.5.5 KILEA | Friday 23rd October, 2026 | Monday 26th to Thursday 29th Oct. 2026 |
| 2.5.6 KPLEA | Friday 23rd October, 2026 | Monday 26th to Thursday 29th Oct. 2026 |
3.0 DISPATCH OF MATERIALS TO THE FIELD
3.1 Dispatch of materials for the 2026 cycle has already begun. KNEC officers who will be dispatching will be communicating with SCDEs regarding dispatch of materials in good time, to enable them to make the necessary arrangements.
3.2 The KCSE examination materials for subjects with a project component shall be collected between 12th and 15th October, 2026. The SCDEs are requested to collect the project materials in readiness for handing over to KNEC officers who will be delivering the assessments/examination administration materials.
3.3 The SCDE is requested to avail two (2) loaders and a Centre Clerk at each container to facilitate timely offloading, verification, and loading of materials. In the past, the absence of loaders has resulted in delays. The loaders will be facilitated by the KNEC officer delivering/collecting the examination materials.
3.4 KNEC piloted use of SMART padlocks in 250 containers in 2025. In 2026, KNEC will be issuing SCDEs with SMART padlocks for all the Containers in their sub-counties in subsequent dispatch trips. KNEC officers delivering the padlocks will induct the officers manning the Containers on how to operate the padlocks. SCDEs / Officers Manning Distribution Centres will be issued with a Smart Padlock, with each having the following accessories:
3.4.1 Charging Unit;
3.4.2 Charging cable;
3.4.3 Power bank;
3.4.4 Unseal Card.
The SCDE/EMD will sign for the items and will be expected to submit the same, to KNEC during collection/delivery of the last KCSE examination scripts.
3.5 It is important for SCDEs to ensure that KPSEA; KJSEA and KCSE examination cartons are stored distinctly in the containers at the point of receipt. The carton labels will be distinguished as follows:
Table 2: Colour of Carton labels
| Assessment/Examination | Carton Label | Carton Strap |
|---|---|---|
| KPSEA | White, with small pink stickers | Blue |
| KJSEA | Green | Blue |
| KCSE | White (Morning session) | Blue |
| KCSE | Yellow (Afternoon session) | Black |
3.6 SCDEs must confirm that the following details which are provided on the carton labels are correct:
3.6.1 Date;
3.6.2 Assessment/Examination (KPSEA/KJSEA/KCSE);
3.6.3 Session (Morning or Afternoon for KCSE only);
3.6.4 County and Sub-county name;
3.6.5 Collection Point Code and Name;
3.6.6 Route Number;
3.6.7 Carton Number;
3.6.8 Codes of Centres contained in each carton.
4.0 DAILY DISTRIBUTION/COLLECTION OF MATERIALS FROM THE CONTAINERS
4.1 As guided by the timetables, the KPSEA and KJSEA materials for each assessment day will be collected from the containers once in the morning while KCSE examination materials will be collected twice a day.
4.2 On the first day of the assessments / examinations, it is necessary to hold a briefing meeting prior to opening the container. All those involved should witness the opening time and confirm that the boxes are intact. The time for opening the containers is as follows:
4.3 Table 3: Opening Time for Containers
| Examination / Assessment | Session | Opening Time for Containers | Administration period |
|---|---|---|---|
| KPSEA / KJSEA | All sessions | 6.00 am | Between 8.30 a.m. and 12.10 p.m.; Between 8.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. depending on the Assessment Day. |
| KCSE | Morning | 7.00 am | Between 8.00 a.m. and 11.00 a.m. |
| KCSE | Afternoon | 12.30 pm | Between 2.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. |
SCDEs and Centre Managers should confirm that they have picked the right materials as guided by the timetables, which will be distinguished as follows:
Table 4: Colours of Question Paper materials
| Assessment/Examination | Question Paper polybags | Session 1 Cover page | Session 2 Cover page | Session 3 Cover page |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KPSEA | Light Green | Pink | Blue | N/A |
| KJSEA | Blue | Pink | Blue | Green |
| KCSE | Dark Green | White | White | N/A |
| KCSE | Dark Green | White | White | N/A |
4.4 Centre Managers shall verify and sign for all materials collected, with priority given to those from schools located farthest from the container.
4.5 The empty cartons shall not be collapsed instead, they shall be re-used for return of answer scripts. The labels must be carefully removed, and the return labels affixed.
4.6 All Centre Managers must use the designated transport to ferry the materials to the schools.
4.7 All Centre Managers must be provided with armed security escort to their centres. For KCSE examination, each centre (school) will be assigned armed security officers, while for KPSEA/KJSEA, the security officers will be used for escort to and from the Container.
KJSEA/KPSEA Security Officers shall only be deployed in schools that are located in areas that are declared as insecure.
5.0 DAILY CONDUCT OF ASSESSMENTS/EXAMINATION IN CENTRES
5.1 At the examination/assessment centres, Supervisors shall verify and endorse receipt of intact question paper packets from Centre Managers, in the presence of invigilators and candidates.
5.2 All papers must be taken in examination centres, and in the designated examination/assessment rooms. In addition, they should be supervised and invigilated by the personnel deployed by KNEC. Candidates who were suspended/expelled or convicted after registering in the schools should be catered for, in designated examination rooms.
5.3 Candidates shall only be allowed to use transparent/clear-bodied biro pens.
5.4 Supervisors shall open Question paper packets five minutes before the scheduled start time indicated on the timetable. Supervisors are expected to:
5.4.1 ensure each candidate is issued with the question paper / OMR bearing their details;
5.4.2 ensure each candidate signs and indicates the date in the space provided;
5.4.3 place the Question papers for AB candidates in the question paper envelope and staple; and
5.4.4 place the stapled packet in front of the examination room throughout the assessment/examination.
5.5 The following materials shall be personalized:
5.5.1 All question papers for KJSEA and KCSE examination; and
5.5.2 All OMRs for KPSEA and KJSEA.
5.6 KJSEA and KCSE examination question papers will have Random Numbers, while KJSEA and KPSEA OMR forms will have Assessment Numbers, no Random Numbers.
5.7 KJSEA and KPSEA candidates’ data and materials have been ordered using their Assessment Numbers.
5.8 For KJSEA, the Random Numbers have been assigned three digits at the end, from 001…..
5.9 The format of KJSEA papers remains as it was in 2025, categorized into three, as follows:
5.9.1 Papers that have Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) only;
5.9.2 Papers that have Structured Questions only;
5.9.3 Papers that have Structured and Multiple-Choice Questions (mixed formats).
5.10 Table 5 gives a list of the papers, highlighted in their respective categories.
Table 5: KJSEA Paper Formats
| Code | Paper Name | Paper Structure | Materials expected |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. 901/1 | English Language | Multiple Choice Questions Only | QPs and OMR sheets; No Perforation |
| 2. 901/2 | English (Composition & Literary Analysis) | Structured Only | No OMRs; Personalized question papers, with perforation |
| 3. 902/1 | Kiswahili Lugha | Multiple Choice Questions Only | QPs and OMR sheets; No Perforation |
| 4. 902/2 | Kiswahili (Insha na Utangulizi wa Fasihi) | Structured Only | No OMRs; Personalised question papers, with perforation |
| 5. 903 | Mathematics | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
| 6. 904/1 | Kenya Sign Language (KSL) – Receptive Skills | Multiple Choice Questions Only | QPs and OMR sheets; No Perforation |
| 7. 904/2 | Kenya Sign Language (KSL) – Language Use | Structured Only | No OMRs; Personalised question papers, with perforation |
| 8. 905/1 | Integrated Science | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
| 9. 905/2 | Integrated Science | Structured Only | No OMRs; Personalised question papers, with perforation |
| 10. 906/1 | Agriculture | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
| 11. 907 | Social Studies | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
| 12. 908 | Christian Religious Education (CRE) | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
| 13. 909 | Islamic Religious Education (IRE) | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
| 14. 910 | Hindu Religious Education (HRE) | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
| 15. 911/2 | Creative Arts & Sports (Theory) | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
| 16. 912/1 | Pre-Technical Studies Theory | Structured & Multiple-Choice Questions | Personalised question papers, with both perforation and OMR sheets |
5.11 The Question Paper Cover page has two sheets of paper, with a total of four pages as follows:
5.11.1 Sheet 1:
| Page 1 – Question paper cover page | Page 2 – Contents of the Question paper | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Contains details of the centre and number of question papers it contains. | Contains the list of index/assessment numbers of candidates whose question papers are in the packet. | Sheet 1 contents have details of the Centre and candidates and MUST be returned together with the unused question papers. They MUST NEVER be enclosed with the candidates’ answer scripts. |
5.11.2 Sheet 2:
| Page 3 – Script Control Form | Page 4 – Script Cover page | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Contains a list of Random numbers of the candidates. Each candidate must sign against their Random number. If Absent, the invigilator will write AB against the random number. | It gives details of the scripts enclosed in each return envelope. It MUST be enclosed with the candidates’ scripts, with barcode facing up. | Sheet 2 MUST be enclosed in each Script Return envelopes. Both pages MUST NEVER bear the school stamp or any other information that can reveal the school’s identity. |
5.12 KJSEA and KCSE personalized question paper counter foils should be handled as follows:
5.12.1 Candidate should NOT detach the counterfoils until the end of the session;
5.12.2 The counterfoils should be detached carefully and put in the clear Return envelope.
5.12.3 The invigilator shall collect all the answer scripts / OMRs and the counter foils and arrange in ascending order at the end of the session, before submitting them to the supervisor.
5.13 At the end of each session, the Supervisor must account for all answer scripts in the examination/assessment room in the presence of the candidates and all other witnesses, and hand in the following materials to the Centre Manager, for delivery to the Container:
5.13.1 KPSEA:
a. Script return envelopes containing OMR sheets, with the Return Cover page, bar-code facing upward for scanning. Every return envelope MUST HAVE a Return Cover Page.
b. Used Question paper polybag(s) with all confidential materials including question papers for all candidates including unused question papers and those for Absent candidates and Supervisor’s Instruction sheet. The envelope(s) should be stapled.
5.13.2 KCSE examination:
a. Script return envelopes containing answer scripts, with the Return Cover page, bar-code facing upward for scanning and Script Control Form. Every return envelope MUST HAVE a Return Cover Page and a Script Control Form.
b. Used Question paper polybag(s) containing all confidential materials including:
i. Sheet 1 (Question paper cover page with Centre details and list of candidates’ index numbers);
ii. The small clear envelope containing counterfoils;
iii. unused question papers including those for Absent candidates. The envelope(s) should be stapled.
5.13.3 KJSEA
a. Papers that have Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) only (Similar to KPSEA)
i. Script return envelopes containing OMR sheets, with the Return Cover page, bar-code facing upward for scanning.
Every return envelope MUST HAVE a Return Cover Page.
ii. Used Question paper polybag(s) with all confidential materials including question papers for all candidates including unused question papers and those for Absent candidates and Supervisor’s Instruction sheet. The envelope(s) should be stapled.
b. Papers that have Structured Questions only (Similar to KCSE)
i. Script return envelopes containing answer scripts, with the Return Cover page, bar-code facing upward for scanning and Script Control Form. Every return envelope MUST HAVE a Return Cover Page and a Script Control Form.
ii. Used Question paper polybag(s) containing all confidential materials including:
- Sheet 1 (Question paper cover page with Centre details and list of candidates’ index numbers);
- The small clear envelope containing counterfoils;
- unused question papers including those for Absent candidates. The envelope(s) should be stapled.
c. Papers that have Structured and Multiple-Choice Questions (mixed formats). Question papers will be handled the same way as KCSE answer scripts, while OMRs shall be handled the same way as KPSEA.
5.14 Table 6 gives a summary of the key items that must be accounted for at the Container.
Table 6: Materials to be accounted for at the end of the session and Colour of Script Return Envelopes
| Colour of Script Return envelopes | Materials to be packed |
|---|---|
| KCSE: BLUE | – Answer Scripts in Script Return envelopes; – Counter Foils, used QP envelopes, Sheet 1, unused question papers, packed in the used QP packets. |
| KPSEA: BLACK | – OMR forms in Script Return envelopes; – used QPs and envelopes, Sheet 1, packed in the used QP packets. |
| KJSEA: GREEN | Papers with structured questions only: – Answer Scripts in Script Return envelopes; – Counter Foils, used QP envelopes, Sheet 1, unused question papers, packed in the used QP packets. Papers with MCQs: – OMR forms in Script Return envelopes; – used QPs and envelopes, Sheet 1, packed in the used QP packets. |
| (KJSEA: GREEN, continued) | Papers with mixed formats: Question papers will be handled the same way as KCSE answer scripts, while OMRs shall be handled the same way as KPSEA. |
5.15 Seating plans shall be handled as follows:
5.15.1 KCSE examination:
Seating plans shall be drawn for each paper and enclosed together with answer scripts. Another one seating plan shall be drawn for a compulsory paper to be returned with other administration documents.
5.15.2 KJSEA and KPSEA:
Only one (1) seating plan should be drawn for the entire assessment and submitted together with the other supervision materials.
6.0 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR HANDLING OF OMR ANSWER SHEETS
6.1 All OMR answer sheets will be personalized, but candidates must be reminded NOT to cut off the area with their personalized details.
6.2 All OMR responses shall be shaded using a pencil, while all structured responses shall be answered using biro pens.
6.3 Candidates are expected to shade inside the ellipses and not strike through. The OMR sheets must be handled delicately and be kept clean and crease-free.
6.4 All KPSEA and KJSEA candidates will be required to use OMR sheets to answer the Multiple-Choice Questions. No candidate should answer on the question paper except with express authority from KNEC. If a candidate will be authorised to use the question paper, their OMR form should be enclosed together with the Question paper where they answered and packed in the OMR return envelope alongside the other OMR sheets for the centre.
6.5 OMR sheets should not have other papers packed between them. Do not pack cover pages, letters, sitting plans or any other papers in the middle of the OMR answer sheets.
6.6 The Supervisor shall verify all OMR forms (including those for AB candidates, shaded at AB) and answer scripts, arrange them in order and pack in the return polybags as per the predetermined range of assessment/index numbers.
6.7 OMR forms (answer sheets) for absent candidates SHOULD NOT be issued to any other candidate even if there is a shortage answer sheets.
7.0 HANDLING OF QUESTION PAPERS FOR ABSENT CANDIDATES
7.1 The supervisor shall indicate AB for any absent candidate in the correct cover page and the candidates’ details shall be reported by the Centre Manager in the CP2 portal daily. OMRs for AB candidates shall be enclosed together with the OMRs for present candidates.
7.2 Counterfoils for ABSENT candidates should NOT be detached.
7.3 Question papers for absent candidates MUST be enclosed, sealed and stapled in the question paper packet and placed on top of a desk in the examination room in full view of the candidates during the assessment /examination session.
7.4 The Supervisor shall hand over the absent candidate(s) question paper(s) at the end of the session (KCSE) / examination day (KPSEA and KJSEA), for return to the container.
7.5 All unused question papers MUST be handed over to the SCDEs at the container, who will hand them over to KNEC together with the scripts.
7.6 Centre Managers must provide details of the absent candidates online through the CP2 portal.
8.0 HANDLING OF CANDIDATES’ ANSWER SHEETS, LARGE PRINT/ BRAILLE ANSWER SCRIPTS
8.1 Candidates’ answer sheets must be arranged facing the same direction. No other papers should be enclosed together with the answer sheets
8.2 Large print answer scripts should be packed together with the regular scripts in order of index / assessment numbers.
8.3 The Braille papers should be packed separately in the correct return envelopes.
9.0 HANDLING OF HARDSHIP CASES
9.1 Any case of a candidate who is unable to present themselves at their centres but is sitting the assessment/examination should be reported to KNEC immediately, and if possible, within reasonable time to enable KNEC to plan accordingly.
9.2 Such candidates should NOT be declared absent. The Supervisor should give details on where such candidates sat the assessment/examination in the Script Control Form (SCF) and Report in the Certificate of Supervision. The Centre Manager should also report on the same on their Report.
9.3 SCDEs should provide a detailed report on candidates who sit their papers outside their Sub-County and/or candidates from other Sub-Counties who sit their papers in their Sub-County.
9.4 The answer sheets for hardship cases shall be packed in a special Hardship return envelope at the venue the candidate sits for assessment/examination.
9.5 All hardship cases should be captured in the CP2 portal during the examinations / assessments.
9.6 Hardship cases for candidates within their Sub-County shall use question papers from their schools. Their answer scripts shall be packed in special envelopes and placed in a green bag for return to KNEC.
9.7 If a candidate uses a question paper that is not personalised, the counter foil shall NOT be detached. The candidates MUST write their names and school random numbers on the answer sheet (KJSEA). For KPSEA the candidates MUST write their assessment numbers, names and school code numbers on the answer sheet/question paper
10.0 HANDLING OF UNDER PROTEST CASES
10.1 All Under-Protest cases MUST be reported to KNEC by 9th October, 2026, to enable KNEC to advise appropriately and in good time. The affected candidates shall take their examination at the County Headquarters at a venue to be determined by the CDE, upon payment of the required penalty.
10.2 If the candidate uses a question paper that is not personalised, the counter foil shall NOT be detached. The candidates MUST write their names and school random numbers on the answer sheet.
10.3 The candidates’ answer script shall be packed separately in the return envelope for hardship cases and the case recorded in the script receiving list provided by KNEC.
11.0 CONDUCT OF ORALS, AURALS AND GROUP IV AND V PRACTICALS
11.1 Oral, Aurals and Practical papers for French, Music, German, Arabic and KSL, will be administered between 19th and 23rd October, 2026.
11.2 KNEC will communicate the assessment timetable dates, which should be adhered to. No assessor or Centre Manager is allowed to change their designated assessment date unless advised by KNEC.
11.3 Centre Managers shall pick their question papers from the containers on the day assigned in the timetable and return the marksheets in a sealed envelope immediately the assessment is completed.
11.4 There will be no invigilators during orals. Only the Supervisor and the Security officers are deployed to the centres.
11.5 The assessor shall score and capture the scores on a marksheet and thereafter upload the marks onto the KNEC portal while still at the centre. The filled marksheet shall be returned to the container for onward transmission to KNEC.
12.0 HANDLING OF SCIENCE AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS PRACTICAL PAPERS
12.1 All the examination centres should make arrangements to ensure that they conduct a maximum of two (2) practical sessions for each practical paper.
12.2 All practical papers should be done in an examination centre. The SCDE shall plan for the candidates who are hospitalized or convicted to do their practical in examination centres.
12.3 All institutions will have received their Advance Instructions for Science and Technical subjects Practicals by 9th October, 2026. Paper specific instructions will be issued to Science and technical teachers from the container through the Centre Manager a day before the actual date of the Practical paper to enable laboratory preparations.
12.4 Only authorized Subject teachers should be in the laboratory and must be confined to the preparation room during the practical paper.
12.5 Neither the Science teacher nor the Laboratory Technician should communicate information on the responses to the practical or interact with the candidates in the absence of the invigilator during the practical.
12.6 Candidates should raise their issues (missing or faulty apparatus or insufficient reagents) with the invigilators who in turn alert the laboratory technician for action.
12.7 No teacher or members of staff should be found in the school purporting to be preparing for the Practical examinations on days and times that they should not be.
12.8 All the candidates taking the Practical paper on a particular day should be in the examination centre at 8:00 am.
12.9 For Chemistry practicals, only the chemistry teacher handling the candidates is allowed to collect data for the Table(s) in Question 1 of the question paper for onward transmission to KNEC together with candidates’ answer scripts. The data collection should be done 30 minutes to the end of each session of the Practical under strict vigilance of the Supervisor and in the preparation room. (For instance, if the session starts at 8:00 am and is expected to end at 10.15 am, the teacher should collect data for the practical at 9.45 am).
12.10 The Chemistry teacher question paper should be enclosed in the question paper packet together with those for AB candidates (if any), sealed and placed on a desk in the examination room (laboratory).
12.11 If the sessions are two (2), the question paper shall be returned and sealed in the question paper packet for issuance towards the end of Session II.
12.12 The teachers’ data sheet for every session shall be enclosed in the first packet of candidates’ scripts for the session.
12.13 Biology and Physics teachers should NOT perform any part of the practical.
12.14 For Computer Studies practicals, the flash disk shall be packed together with the answer scripts.
12.15 Sample data provided by assessors of Power mechanics (447/2), Electricity (448/2) and Aviation Technology (450/2) should be packed together with candidates answer scripts.
13.0 RETURN OF MATERIALS TO THE CONTAINER
13.1 The Centre Managers should be escorted while returning materials to the container. They are expected to hand over;
13.1.1 Return poly bags with the answer scripts and or OMRs;
13.1.2 The small Return envelope with the counter foils;
13.1.3 The envelopes with unused answer scripts for ABSENT and empty question paper packets;
13.1.4 Administration materials at the end of the assessment/examination period.
13.2 They must sign the Receiving printout and account for all the return envelopes and all their candidates.
13.3 The Sub-County Director will be guided on how to pack the answer scripts for return to KNEC.
14.0 COLLECTION / RETURN OF MATERIALS AT THE END OF THE ASSESSMENT/EXAMINATION PERIOD
14.1 The cartons used for delivering question papers shall be recycled for the return of candidates’ answer scripts.
14.2 After the issuance of examination question paper packets to Centre Managers (CMs), the SCDEs shall oversee the removal of all the labels that showed the contents of the carton from the cartons in readiness for recycling and affixing the pre-printed return carton labels to be used during the return of candidates’ answer scripts and OMR sheets. SCDEs will engage two Centre clerks for the days when KJSEA shall be running concurrently with KCSE.
14.3 KNEC will provide Return carton labels, pre-printed based on the number of cartons delivered per container, per paper for use. Every carton will have a Return label which shall indicate the examination or assessment, specify whether it is for OMR answer sheets or candidates’ answer scripts, and include a barcode and a unique box number. The bar code must not be blocked when closing the box.
14.4 Packets received from the CMs shall be verified and placed in the respective cartons for each paper. The issuing and receiving printouts shall be used by the SCDEs as the first-level confirmation of the packets.
14.5 Additional empty cartons shall be provided by KNEC for use in packing the packets containing KJSEA OMR answer sheets and the counterfoils. The SCDEs will also be provided with return carton labels to be used for packing the packets containing the OMR answer sheets.
14.6 Upon receipt, verification, and placement of the packets in their respective cartons, the SCDEs shall temporarily seal the boxes with masking tapes that will be provided in readiness for collection by KNEC officers.
14.7 All the counter foils shall be packed in two separate boxes for each container per week, one for KCSE and the other for KJSEA.
14.8 Green bags and security seals shall only be provided in areas where air transport is used and for Under-Protest cases.
14.9 Any discrepancies observed during submission of answer scripts to KNEC should be resolved before materials leave the container, and a detailed report submitted to KNEC.
15.0 ADMINISTRATION OF THE KILEA AND KPLEA
15.1 Assessments for KILEA and KPLEA candidates will be uploaded in the KNEC portal.
15.2 The assessments will be downloaded and administered and scored by teachers handling the learners at school as per the timetable.
15.3 The scores will be uploaded in the KNEC portal and hard copies of scores submitted to KNEC through SCDE.
15.4 For every ten (10) KILEA candidates, one teacher will be assigned as invigilator, while for every five (5) KPLEA candidates, one teacher will be assigned as invigilator.
16.0 RECRUITMENT OF SUPERVISORS AND INVIGILATORS
16.1 KCSE Supervisors will be rotated on a weekly and must submit their weekly report before reporting to the new station.
16.2 Where a Centre has both KJSEA and KPSEA, one (1) the Supervisor will be deployed for both KJSEA and KPSEA, however each assessment shall have specific assessment rooms and invigilators.
16.3 All identified personnel must be deployed in the CP2 system, and guidelines on nomination have been provided.
16.4 All personnel must sign the Declaration of Interest forms that will be returned together with the Centre Managers’ reports. The online register must be filled daily, printed; and signed by all and; stamped by both the Centre manager and SCDE.
16.5 All Centre Managers, Supervisors and Invigilators MUST print and carry their appointment letters daily, carry their Identity Cards (IDs) and wear their identification badges.
16.6 Any new officers appointed to replace those who attended the briefing must be briefed on their roles before taking up the assignment.
17.0 SUB-COUNTY PERSONNEL
The following is a list of officers who will be involved in the exercise. They will be deployed once during the assessment period:
17.1 Sub-County Level
The following positions shall have one officer per sub-county:
17.1.1 The TSC –SCD;
17.1.2 The Sub-county Police Commander (SCPC);
17.1.3 The Sub-county Examination officer (SCXO); and
17.1.4 Data Capturer.
17.2 Container level
The following positions shall be deployed at every Container
17.2.1 Sub-County Director of Education (SCDE);
17.2.2 Deputy County Commissioner (DCC)/ Assistant County Commissioner (ACC);
17.2.3 Education officer manning the distribution Centre ( EMD);
17.2.4 Clerk(one clerk deployed for KJSEA and one clerk deployed for KCSE);
17.2.5 Critical Infrastructure Police Unit (CIPU);
17.2.6 Four Security officers to man the container (2 at night and 2 during the day); and
17.2.7 Drivers.
Security officers who escort the materials will be deployed at the Examination / Assessment centre level.
18.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE DURING EXAMINATIONS
18.1 Use of Calculators during KJSEA and KCSE
Candidates will be expected to use codeless and non-programmable electronic calculators in the papers that allow the use of Calculators. The calculators must not possess the following:
a. Facility for storage of formulae;
b. Facility for drawing and storage of graphics;
c. Dictionary facility;
d. Algebraic storage facilities;
e. Any other programming facility.
Candidates should not enter the exam room with calculator covers.
19.0 HANDLING OF MOBILE PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES
19.1 Mobile phones belonging to persons at the examination/assessment centres, including those of the security officers, as well as any other electronic devices, shall be kept under lock and key outside the examination/assessment room under the vigilance of a security office. The key will be kept by the Supervisor. This rule also applies to the phones of teachers undertaking laboratory
preparations in readiness for the practical sessions. No one is allowed to access examination/assessment room while in possession of a mobile phone or any other electronic device when an examination/assessment paper is in progress.
19.2 Invigilators should stand at the back of the candidates to deter any intention to have access to unauthorized materials.
19.3 Supervisors should record any incidents as they occur.
19.4 Mathematical tables should be checked to ensure they are clean.
19.5 Candidates must be checked to ensure they do not have unauthorized materials in the examination or assessment rooms.
19.6 All officers in an examination Centre shall have badges clearly displayed to show their roles.
19.7 Learners are not permitted to wear wristwatches; each examination room must be equipped with a wall clock
20.0 ACCESS TO THE ASSESSMENT/EXAMINATION CENTRES
20.1 The school gates should remain open from 6:00 am to the time that the examination/assessment materials of the day leave the centre.
20.2 Centres managers will be expected to allow monitoring officers access to the examination/assessment centre without hindrance. All field officers and Centre Managers should be aware that KNEC monitoring officers can go directly to the examination/assessment rooms without first reporting to their offices.
20.3 All Monitoring officers shall be issued with identification badges that shall be worn while at the distribution and examination/ assessment centres.
20.4 Officers from IPOA will also be monitoring the conduct of security officers when providing security during the conduct of the examination and assessments.
20.5 The Centre manager shall prepare a list of all authorized persons in the examination centre. The single list organized per week should comprise the following details: Name, ID Number, TSC Number, Telephone number and Designation/Role.
20.6 The list should be endorsed by the SCDE before the rehearsal day.
20.7 The Authorized Persons are restricted to:
a. the Centre Manager (CM) who should be the principal or the Head of Institution (HOI).
b. one deputy principal/deputy HOI. This MUST be the official deputy principal/HOI. (In cases where a school has more than one deputy principal only one should be involved throughout the examination period).
c. Supervisor(s)
d. Security officer (s)
e. Invigilator(s)
f. Gatekeeper
g. Cooks (reasonable number depending on the candidature)
h. Laboratory assistants and teachers of sciences and technical subjects on the day preceding practical day and the day of the practical.
20.7.2 No Unauthorised Persons should be in the examination centre when the examinations and assessments are in progress including the following.
a. School Directors;
b. BOM chair/Members;
c. Bursar/accounts clerks;
d. Secretary;
e. Unauthorised teachers; and
f. Grounds Men.
20.8 Handling of Visitor’s Book and Monitoring Registers
20.8.1 The monitoring register, centre’s visitors’ book, list of authorised persons at the centre and school stamp should be placed at the desk where the mobile phones of authorised persons are kept at examination/assessment area and not in the Centre Manager’s office or anywhere else.
20.8.2 At the end of the examination period, all the Monitoring registers should be packed together with the Supervisors’ reports, Centre Managers confidential reports and the nominal rolls.
20.9 Endorsement of Monitoring Questionnaire
KNEC will send officers to the examination centres to monitor the administration of the assessments and examination. It is a requirement that the monitoring officer complete the questionnaires based on the observations made during their visit to the centre. The centre manager should endorse the questionnaire by signing and stamping the document.
20.10 Channels for Whistle Blowing
Whistle blowing is a key aspect in ensuring integrity of the examinations/assessments. Whistle blowers can channel their reports by:
20.10.1 Writing letters either official or anonymous to KNEC. The letters may be physical or electronic.
20.10.2 Making phone calls using the Call Centre (0800721410 / 0800724900) or the numbers on the infographics (0798060000 / 0798060010)
20.10.3 Use of social media (Facebook, X-handle, Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram and LinkedIn).
20.10.4 Presenting reports through physical visits to KNEC offices.
20.10.5 Reports on misconduct of security officers will be channelled to IPOA through a toll-free line 1559.
20.11 Briefing of Security Personnel
20.11.1 The Briefing of all security officers will be conducted by the DCC (or representative) in charge of every container before the start of the activity. Notes shall be provided.
20.11.2 The security officers must ensure no unauthorized persons interact with the candidates and examination / assessment materials.
20.11.3 All field officers, Centre Managers and Supervision personnel are reminded to read their Appointment letters and circulars from KNEC on the administration and management of examination and assessments.
21.0 SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENTS (SBAs)
21.1 All Grade 10 learners must first be registered into the grade 10 portal.
21.2 Written SBAs for Grades 3, 4, 5, 7, 8 and 10; are ongoing in all schools.
21.3 KFLEA, KILEA and KPLEA SBAs are also ongoing. Centre managers are urged to ensure that the candidates sitting these assessments have their SBA scores uploaded onto the CBA portal by 23rd October, 2026.
22.0 EL-NINO AWARENESS AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
22.1 Following several advisories from the Government regarding the impending El-Nino, KNEC has been putting in place various strategies towards minimizing the predictable adverse effects likely to occur, that can negatively impact on administration of the 2026 National Assessments and Examination.
22.2 The Council has been engaging with SCDEs for any information on identified risks and the proposed mitigations. In this regard, RDEs, CDEs and SCDEs are requested to provide any information arising from County Security Meetings that can guide planning in case of any predictable emergencies.
22.3 SCDEs are particularly encouraged to advise on mitigation strategies that can be implemented at Sub-County levels such as relocation of candidates to safer areas, and further, to ensure that the safety of field officers, candidates and assessment/examination materials remains the priority in any emergency.
22.4 Day-to-day occurrences and emergencies should be reported to the Call Centre immediately, for real-time response and action by KNEC where necessary.
23.0 CONCLUSION
The Council looks forward to a collaborative season with all the stakeholders attending the Briefing meeting. In case of any need to engage further, stakeholders are encouraged to communicate through the KNEC Call Centre and the dedicated official emails.
@ Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) October, 2026
