The first day of the BEPC diploma exam and secondary class entrance competition in Mahajanga proceeded without incident. This year, the Boeny region recorded an 8.34% increase in candidate numbers, with 11,131 candidates, including 3,853 in Mahajanga I district, of which 2,533 are in option A. Nine examination centers are hosting the exam in Mahajanga city.
Unlike the CEPE exam, there was less commotion outside the examination centers. Candidates were accompanied only to the gates, after which parents and relatives returned home. During the CEPE session, large crowds and a kind of picnic atmosphere were observed outside these sites throughout the day. Yesterday's weather was also unpredictable, with gloomy and cold conditions, forcing everyone to leave and return at dismissal time.
Security protocols were reinforced, including the prohibition of mobile phones, smartwatches, tablets, and any other communication devices during the exam. Jocelyn Elson, Cisco chief of Mahajanga I, announced that results will be published on Saturday, July 18. "Copy corrections will begin next Thursday. This year's objective is to publish the BEPC diploma exam and secondary entrance competition results simultaneously," the Cisco chief explained.
The youngest candidate in the Boeny region is nine years old and enrolled at FJKM Ziona Vaovao high school in Mangarivotra, while the oldest is fifty-six years old.