New measures to curb exam cheating here to stay, Matiangi says

New measures to curb exam cheating here to stay, Matiangi says

Education, Science and Technology Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i has told critics of new measures to curb examination cheating that there will be no turning back.

Matiang’i said that there were extensive consultations with education stakeholders including the clergy and school heads in formulating the measures, terming those opposed to them as ill informed.

The Cabinet Secretary said some people have embraced the culture of approaching issues with ‘open mouths instead of open minds’.

Speaking during a Prize Giving Day at Kenya High School in Nairobi, Matiang’i called for support of his ministry in its resolve to bring back integrity and credibility to national examinations.

“We’ll act firmly without fear of favour. We’ll not compromise the life of our children on the altar of some people’s madness,” said Matiang’i.

He said those who assist their children to cheat in national examinations undermine their credibility as parents and serve to prepare young people to live dishonestly.

“It is always good to get an honest ‘C’ (aggregate grade) than a fraudulent ‘A’,” Matiang’i said.

On Wednesday the Cabinet Secretary issued a directive containing a raft of measures meant to curb examination cheating. Among them was banning of social activities and prayers conducted by outsiders in the Third Term to allow candidates to have a conducive environment to prepare for the exams.

The measures have been met by stiff opposition by some religious leaders and select Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) branches.

Matiang’i reiterated that third term should only be for exclusive preparation of examinations and advised teachers and parents to conduct prayers if they want in the second term.

“As a parent you do not necessarily need to visit your children in school and pray in order for God to hear your prayers. Pray wherever you are and God will hear your prayers,” said Matiang’i.

The Cabinet Secretary warned school heads who misappropriate public funds that their days are numbered as the ministry has contacted the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to carry out thorough investigations on suspect cases.

Matiang’i lauded Kenya High School Principal Florah Mulatya for embracing good management practices in running the school.

Kenya High School Board of Management chair Cannon Philip Njuki said they support the new measures to curb cheating in national examination.

Njuki said it is unfair for deserving students to be denied a chance to study their preferred course by cheats.

Among those feted their exemplary performance during the ceremony were 20 KCSE candidates who scored “A’ plain grades last year.

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kenya education KCSE Matiang’i kcpe cheating Education CS Fred Matiang'i

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