By Wakhungu Andanje
Security personnel in Malava Sub-County are investigating allegations of exam malpractice at Samitsi Girls Secondary School, following a tip-off. The school’s principal, Gladys Kavere Mudaki, had her mobile phone confiscated as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Investigators arrived at the school unannounced, acting on rumors circulating on social media about possible exam irregularities. These claims linked the school—top-ranked in the sub-county during the 2023 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), to alleged exam leakages. Despite their search yielding no concrete evidence of malpractice, the principal’s visibly shaken demeanor and unease raised further suspicions, prompting additional scrutiny.
The investigation took a new turn when the principal’s phone reportedly displayed an incoming call moments before the security team arrived. Officials suspect this call may have been a warning for her to restore normalcy before their arrival. Although no direct evidence of wrongdoing has been found, investigators are examining the contents of the phone for any potential leads.
A security source indicated that the unusual timing of the call and the principal’s reaction created doubt about the integrity of the school’s operations. However, they emphasized that these suspicions do not amount to proof of malpractice and assured the public that findings would be made public once the investigation concludes.
Efforts to reach Sub-County Director of Education Rise Chisumi for comment were unsuccessful. The principal was also unavailable for a statement, as her phone remains in investigators’ custody.
Samitsi Girls has consistently performed well academically, but its recent exceptional results, particularly in the 2023 KCSE exams, have drawn scrutiny. Local education stakeholders and members of the public have raised concerns about the sudden surge in high grades since the current principal’s appointment. These concerns were compounded by the school’s low-profile celebration of their 2023 results, with the principal avoiding media interviews.
At this stage, the investigation remains inconclusive. Authorities stress that their findings could either confirm or completely exonerate the school and its leadership. The public is urged to refrain from jumping to conclusions until the probe is finalized.
