Principal Secretary for Basic Education John Ololtuaa addressed centre managers at the Makadara Deputy County Commissioner’s office in Nairobi, where examination papers were dispatched to mark the start of the main KCSE examination period.

Ololtuaa cautioned officials to remain vigilant and to strictly follow KNEC guidelines, emphasizing accountability to protect the credibility of the national examinations.

He personally oversaw the opening of the examination container and the distribution of papers to centre managers in Makadara Sub‑County.

The main KCSE exams this week involve compulsory subjects, with an estimated one million candidates expected to sit the scheduled papers nationwide.

In Mandera County, 8,745 candidates – 5,420 boys and 3,250 girls – are sitting the month‑long exams, supported by multi‑agency teams to ensure smooth administration.

Mandera County Director of Education Koriyow Hussein Ali noted that KNEC supplied two helicopters to deliver and monitor examination materials in hard‑to‑reach areas affected by insecurity and heavy rainfall.

He added that security agencies, teachers, supervisors and the Teachers Service Commission are collaborating to ensure examinations comply with KNEC regulations.

The County Director urged all examination officials to uphold integrity and prevent any irregularities, wishing the 2026 KCSE candidates success.