As BEPC exam sessions ended, the areas around examination centers filled with parents picking up their children. Between heightened vigilance and secure transportation, safety remained a top priority.
At the exit of the Jean-Joseph Rabearivelo high school examination center in Analakely, reunions between parents and candidates multiplied. Many parents made sure to be present to escort them home.
"We cannot help but come pick up our children after the exams. We are anxious and terrified following recent waves of child disappearances," said Nathalie Rakotonarivo, who came to collect her child. Like her, many parents prefer to take no chances in the current context.
Not all candidates were accompanied, however. Some chose to return together, following their families' recommendations. "Our parents asked us not to go home alone. We always have to group together to avoid getting lost," explained Fanantenana, a BEPC candidate, surrounded by several classmates preparing to leave the center.
Others opted for free buses provided by the State. On board a Foton bus, Prisca shared that she has used this mode of transport since the exams began. "Since the start of the exams, the Foton bus has been my means of transport because it makes our journeys easier," she testified.
Safety Guidelines
The same situation was observed outside several examination centers in the capital. Parents waited for their children until they exited before returning home together. "We don't want to take any risks. It's better to stay cautious," summarized Santatra, a mother who came to pick up her child.
This vigilance is also recommended by authorities. During a press conference held the day before yesterday, Vonjy Maminjanahary Andriasy, police prefect of Antananarivo, called on parents to pick up their children after BEPC exams.
In homes, safety guidelines are now repeated before each trip. "Before leaving the house, I remind him not to talk to strangers, to stay with his classmates at the center exit, and to wait for me at the agreed location. Right now, we prefer to be very cautious," testified another parent.
Beyond exam success, the safe return of children remains parents' priority. "I have another child who will soon take the baccalaureate exam, and I will do the same thing," continued Nathalie Rakotonarivo.
Mialisoa Ida