A Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination candidate at Sironga Girls High School in Nyamira County collapsed on Tuesday following an alleged assault by a Ministry of Education official.
The incident, which has drawn significant attention, took place around 9 a.m. while the student was sitting for her exam in class.
According to a police report, Betarice Kendi, a quality assurance officer, entered the examination room and observed the student appearing to chew something she suspected could be an “unauthorized material.”
Believing it to be a potential violation of exam regulations, Kendi reportedly moved closer to the student and slapped her multiple times. However, despite the confrontation, no evidence of any unauthorized material was recovered.
“She moved closer and slapped the student severally but did not recover any exhibit to effect,” officers from the Nyamira police station said in a report.
After Kendi left the examination room, the student reportedly remained visibly distressed. According to witnesses, she appeared unsettled, and shortly before the exam concluded around 10 a.m., she collapsed.
Following the incident, the student was rushed to the school dispensary, where she received medical attention. The school’s health personnel discharged her later in what they described as a “fair state.”
The case has raised concerns over the treatment of students during high-stakes examinations and the physical discipline practices used by some officials.
Following the incident, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) launched an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the student’s collapse and whether the ministry official’s actions were justified.
This incident highlights the intense pressure placed on students and educators during national exams, sparking debate on the need for careful, non-intrusive inspection methods to prevent any harm to students.
As the investigation progresses, there are calls for greater oversight in ensuring that examination protocols prioritize students’ well-being and mental health alongside academic integrity.
