CEP 2026: Bénin ensures school canteens remain open during exams
The Government of Bénin has taken a decisive step to support primary school candidates ahead of the 2026 Certificat d’Études Primaires (CEP) exams. In a recent directive, Salimane Karimou, Minister of Pre-Primary and Primary Education, mandated the uninterrupted operation of school canteens for all participating students from June 1 to June 4, 2026.
Why this measure matters
This decision specifically targets schools already enrolled in the National Integrated School Feeding Program (PNASI). For these institutions, the midday break will not disrupt daily routines—instead, students will still receive hot, nutritious meals on-site, just as they do throughout the academic year.
Avoiding disruptions to exam performance
Minister Salimane Karimou emphasized that suspending meal services during this critical period could undermine student focus. In his official memo to regional education directors, he stated:
« Many CEP candidates rely on these meals daily. Withholding them during exams could negatively affect their performance by introducing unnecessary stress and hunger-related fatigue. »
The goal is clear: prevent physiological shocks or distractions that might impair afternoon exam results.
Ensuring seamless execution nationwide
The continuation of this service requires meticulous logistical planning. Regional directors have been instructed to:
- Verify adequate food stock levels across all beneficiary schools.
- Confirm the availability of service providers throughout the four-day exam window.
- Monitor operations to guarantee no disruptions occur.
This move underscores the government’s recognition of school canteens as more than just social services—they are key tools for academic success. By maintaining nutritional stability, the Ministry ensures that students in affected areas enter their exams with confidence and sustained energy.
Parents of students in participating schools can rest assured: the program will remain fully operational until the final exams are submitted on June 4.
