Gce 2026 written exams postponed after social media leak
An investigation has been launched to track down those responsible for the leak, as the ministry urges all 208,761 candidates to remain calm.
The Minister of Secondary Education, Nalova Lyonga, announced on Saturday, June 6, 2026, that the written examinations for the 2026 General Certificate of Education (GCE) would be postponed. This decision came after confidential exam papers circulated widely online. All remaining written GCE tests, originally scheduled from June 8 to 18, have officially been rescheduled.
New dates have been set: Monday, June 22, through Thursday, July 2, 2026. Exams for technical and vocational education are not affected and will proceed as planned. Authorities have opened a procedure to identify those behind the leak, with digital evidence handed over to the relevant agencies to determine how the security breach occurred.
Fake document circulating
The ministry urges all 208,761 candidates to stay calm and use the extra two weeks to strengthen their revision. On Sunday, the minister’s decision sparked heated discussions online. A document appearing on social media suggested a reversal of the minister’s position regarding the rescheduling of the remaining GCE papers. However, after verification, the document was found to be fake. The decision to postpone the exams from June 22 to July 2 remains in effect. Nonetheless, each candidate is advised to report to their examination center on Monday. In Cameroon, the leakage of official exam papers onto social media—commonly known as “l’eau”—is a recurring and widespread problem that jeopardises the credibility of qualifications such as the Baccalaureate and the GCE.
QR codes and digitalisation introduced
WhatsApp and Telegram groups serve as the primary channels for these leaks. Confidential exam subjects appear as photos, sometimes with answer keys, often shared early in the morning before tests begin. These leaks frequently force the Ministry of Secondary Education (MINESEC) to reschedule or postpone certain written exams to ensure fairness among candidates. Investigations reveal weaknesses in the logistics chain, from the selection and validation of exam papers to reprography and distribution. Cases of complicity involving teachers and administrative staff are regularly reported. To combat fraud, the relevant ministries have strengthened security measures, including the introduction of QR codes and digitalisation.
