The Kenyan government has reportedly restricted access to Telegram, a popular messaging platform, in response to concerns over its alleged misuse for exam cheating during the ongoing Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams. The exams, which started on Monday, have seen an alarming surge in Telegram channels that allegedly share and sell KCSE exam materials at high prices.
With millions of Kenyans using Telegram daily, the sudden restrictions have left many unable to access the platform since Thursday. Education stakeholders acted swiftly to limit access to Telegram, intending to uphold the integrity of the national exams and deter any attempts at cheating. This crackdown reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining the credibility of the KCSE exams, a critical milestone for Kenyan students.
Although reports suggest that some materials on these channels resemble KCSE exam papers, authorities have yet to confirm their authenticity, casting doubt on the scale of potential exam leaks. The restriction on Telegram access has sparked discussions on the broader implications of restricting digital platforms, particularly how it impacts both students and the general public.
This latest move underscores the challenges posed by digital platforms in ensuring fair and secure examination environments.