KNUT Exposes Cartel Involvement in National Exam Cheating
KNUT Exposes Cartel Involvement in National Exam Cheating. Hesbon Otieno, the Deputy Secretary General of the Kenya National Union of Teachers, has made a compelling assertion regarding the presence of organized groups that facilitate exam cheating among students.
During a recent interview conducted on Citizen TV, Hesbon emphatically pointed out that students cannot independently orchestrate large-scale cheating during national exams. Furthermore, he stressed that cheating is not a spontaneous act but a premeditated action that demands meticulous planning over an extended period.
Hesbon raised thought-provoking questions about how it’s possible for students to provide virtually identical answers within the constraints of a two-hour exam timeframe. This implies the existence of a well-structured and carefully devised strategy. He strongly urged the nation to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the underlying factors that lead individuals to collaborate in planning cheating during national exams. This responsibility, he emphasized, extends not only to students but also to everyone involved in exam security, invigilation, and administration.
Unmasking the Hidden Forces Behind Exams
In addition, Hesbon emphasized the critical need for individuals responsible for overseeing exams to demonstrate unwavering integrity while carrying out their duties. He underscored a vital aspect: quite often, it’s the adults who introduce students to cheating practices, underscoring the innocence of the students themselves.
In the current academic year, the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has successfully registered a staggering 903,260 KCSE candidates. These candidates have been meticulously scheduled to undertake their KCSE practical papers over the course of a week, culminating on Friday, October 27. The practical exams include orals for subjects such as French, German, Arabic, Kenyan Sign Language, and music.
As we progress through the examination timeline, students will actively take on Home Science practical exams on October 30 and 31. The KCSE exams will actively conclude on November 24 with the administration of physics practicals.
Against the backdrop of allegations surrounding exam malpractice during the 2022 KCSE exams earlier this year, it’s worth noting that the National Assembly Education Committee launched a comprehensive investigation on January 27. Their findings revealed a range of malpractices, including collusion, mobile phone usage, impersonation, possession of unauthorized materials, exam paper leakage, and plagiarism.
Faced with these challenges, the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has firmly committed to conducting the 2023 national exams with the highest integrity, eliminating the specter of malpractice.