Gce 2026 exams postponed after social media leak in Cameroon

An investigation is underway to track down those responsible for the leak, as the ministry asks all 208,761 candidates to remain calm.

The Minister of Secondary Education, Nalova Lyonga, announced on Saturday, June 6, 2026, that the written exams for the GCE 2026 are postponed. This decision follows the widespread circulation of confidential exam papers online. All remaining written GCE (General Certificate of Education) exams, originally scheduled from June 8 to 18, have now been officially delayed.

New dates have been set: from Monday, June 22, to Thursday, July 2, 2026. Technical and vocational education exams are not affected and will proceed as planned. An investigation has been opened to identify the source of the leak. Digital evidence has been handed over to the relevant authorities to trace the origin of this security breach.

Fake document denied

The ministry urges all 208,761 candidates to stay calm and use the extra two weeks to refine their preparation. On Sunday, a document circulated on social media falsely claimed a reversal of the minister’s decision to reschedule the remaining GCE exams. After verification, the document was found to be fake, and the rescheduling for June 22 to July 2 remains in effect. Candidates are advised to report to their exam centers on Monday as originally instructed.

In Cameroon, the leaking of official exam papers on social media — commonly referred to as “l’eau” — is a recurring and widespread problem that undermines the integrity of qualifications like the Baccalaureate and the GCE. WhatsApp and Telegram groups are the primary channels for distribution. Confidential subjects appear as photos, sometimes with answers, often shared in the early morning hours before exams begin. These leaks regularly force the Ministry of Secondary Education (MINESEC) to reschedule or postpone certain written tests to ensure fairness among candidates.

Investigations reveal weaknesses in the logistics chain, from the selection and validation of exam papers to reproduction and distribution. Cases of complicity involving teachers and administrative staff have been reported. To combat fraud, the relevant ministries have strengthened security measures, including the introduction of QR codes and digitization.