The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research is enforcing a strict zero-tolerance policy on baccalaureate fraud. Heavy sanctions have already been imposed on several candidates caught cheating during the 2025 session. Eight people who submitted applications to the Baccalaureate Office in Antananarivo had their registrations rejected this year. The number of baccalaureate candidates in Antananarivo has been reduced to 61,997, down from 62,005 initially. "Some who were already caught cheating in 2025 dared to re-register despite being sanctioned," states a communiqué from the University of Antananarivo regarding the baccalaureate, whose exams are taking place this week. After appearing before the Disciplinary Council (Codis), these fraudsters were suspended from the exam. Some attempted to re-register in other provinces, others in Antananarivo. "They are already listed on a blacklist. We identified them without difficulty," explains an official from the Antananarivo Baccalaureate Office. Earlier this year, 27 candidates appeared before Codis at the University of Antananarivo. They were prosecuted for identity fraud, cheating or attempted cheating, mainly due to mobile phone use during exams. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research reaffirms its zero-tolerance policy against exam fraud. Heavy Penalties. The use of mobile phones and any other connected devices is strictly prohibited within examination centers during exams. This prohibition applies to both candidates and invigilators, the ministry clarifies. Also banned are documents such as books and notebooks, as well as any form of cheating and candidate substitution. "Any violation will be immediately sanctioned," warns the Ministry of Higher Education, which organizes the exam. Candidates caught cheating face heavy sanctions, ranging from immediate expulsion from the examination room to a ban from taking the exam for one to five years, not excluding possible imprisonment. The Ministry of Higher Education calls for everyone's vigilance and invites reporting of any suspicious behavior to +261 34 01 042 16 to combat fraud. The State Mobilizes Eighty-Four Foton Buses. The president of the Refoundation of the Republic of Madagascar, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, has made 84 Foton buses available to baccalaureate candidates in Antananarivo. According to explanations provided, these buses are intended to facilitate candidate transportation and strengthen public security in light of recent concerning events. This transport service will be free for candidates from the Urban Municipality of Antananarivo and its surroundings. The buses will serve 22 routes. Each candidate must present their exam notice and an identity document. They may be accompanied by one person. All public gardens in Antananarivo will be open to candidates to allow them to have lunch and study quietly before exams.