This archive report was first published on 13 November 2019.
Nakuru KCSE Candidate Dies After Sitting Chemistry Practical Exam ¶
Police and education officials in Nakuru are investigating the death of a KCSE candidate who died after sitting for a Chemistry practical exam on November 8, 2019.
The deceased, Victor Kiptoo Ng'eno, had complained of breathing complications and nausea after completing the exam, according to his father David Ng'eno.
Ng'eno revealed that his son had been diagnosed with pneumonia in September 2019 and had been taking medication for the condition.
However, despite taking medication, Kiptoo's condition worsened, and he died on November 11, 2019.
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has accused the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) of exposing invigilators and students to harmful xylene chemicals during the Chemistry practical exam.
The teachers' union claimed that KNEC failed to provide protective gear, such as nose masks, to students handling the toxic substance.
According to the union, inhaling xylene vapors in small amounts can cause headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea.
Basic Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang has dismissed the reports, stating that the claims are unfounded.
Meanwhile, another KCSE candidate in Kisumu county is in serious pain after a chemical exploded on his face during a Chemistry practical exam.
Apollo Otieno is admitted at the Kombewa sub-county hospital in Kisumu, where he is continuing with the remaining papers.
