An investigation has been launched to track down those behind the leak, as the ministry calls on all 208,761 candidates to stay calm.
On Saturday, June 6, 2026, the Minister of Secondary Education, Nalova Lyonga, announced the postponement of the GCE 2026 written exams. The decision came after confidential exam papers spread widely online. All remaining written tests of the General Certificate of Education, originally scheduled from June 8 to 18, have been officially delayed.
New dates have been set: Monday, June 22, to Thursday, July 2, 2026. Technical and vocational education exams are unaffected and will proceed as normal. An investigation has been launched to track down those responsible for the leak. Digital evidence has been handed over to the relevant authorities to identify the source of this security breach.
Fake document
The ministry urges all 208,761 candidates to remain calm and use the extra two weeks to strengthen their preparations. On Sunday, the minister’s decision sparked heated debates online. A document circulating on social media claimed a reversal of the minister’s position on rescheduling the remaining GCE exams.
After verification, the document was found to be fake. The minister’s rescheduling decision for June 22 to July 2 remains in effect. Nevertheless, each candidate is advised to report to their exam center this Monday. In Cameroon, the leaking of official exam papers on social media, commonly known as ‘l’eau’ (the water), is a recurring and widespread problem that undermines the integrity of diplomas such as the Baccalauréat and GCE.
QR codes and digitization
WhatsApp and Telegram are the main platforms used to spread leaked papers. Confidential subjects appear as photos, sometimes even with answer keys, 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 selection and validation of exam papers to reproduction and distribution. Cases of complicity involving teachers and administrative staff are regularly highlighted. To combat fraud, the relevant ministries have strengthened security measures, including the introduction of QR codes and digitization.