Authorities launch investigation into the leak, ministry advises 208,761 candidates to remain calm.
In a significant development, Nalova Lyonga, the Minister of Secondary Education, announced on Saturday, June 6, 2026, the postponement of the General Certificate of Education (GCE) 2026 written examinations. This decision comes after confidential exam papers were widely circulated across various online platforms. Consequently, all remaining GCE written papers, initially scheduled from June 8 to June 18, are now officially deferred.
Immediately following the announcement, new dates for the rescheduled exams were established: Monday, June 22, to Thursday, July 2, 2026. It is important to note that examinations for technical and vocational education programs are unaffected by this change and will proceed as originally planned. A formal investigation has been initiated to identify and prosecute those responsible for the leak, with digital evidence already submitted to the relevant authorities to pinpoint the source of this security breach.
False document circulates amid postponement
The Ministry is urging all 208,761 registered candidates to maintain composure and utilize these additional two weeks to intensify their preparations. On Sunday, the Minister’s decision fueled extensive discussions online. A document falsely claiming a reversal of the Minister of Secondary Education’s position regarding the GCE rescheduling began circulating on social media.
After thorough verification, this document was confirmed to be fraudulent. The Minister’s decision to reschedule the remaining GCE papers from June 22 to July 2 remains firm. Nevertheless, candidates are still advised to report to their respective examination centers this Monday. In Cameroon, the unauthorized dissemination of official exam papers on social media, colloquially referred to as “l’eau” (the water), is a pervasive and recurring issue that consistently undermines the integrity of national diplomas such as the Baccalauréat and the GCE.
Implementing QR codes and digitalization to enhance security
WhatsApp and Telegram messaging platforms serve as the primary conduits for this illicit distribution. Confidential examination subjects often appear as photographs, sometimes accompanied by answer keys, frequently shared in the early hours of the morning before testing begins. These recurrent leaks compel the Ministry of Secondary Education (MINESEC) to frequently reschedule or postpone certain written papers to uphold fairness and equity among all candidates.
Investigations into past incidents consistently reveal systemic vulnerabilities and weak links throughout the logistical chain, spanning from the initial selection and validation of exam questions to the reprography and subsequent distribution processes. Cases of complicity involving both teaching staff and administrative personnel are regularly highlighted as contributing factors. To combat these persistent fraudulent activities, the ministries involved have significantly bolstered security protocols, introducing measures such as QR codes and widespread digitalization.