The National Certification and Orientation Exam, which determines eligibility for post-basic education in Burundi, officially began on May 26, 2025, and is scheduled to continue through May 28, 2025. The annual assessment marks a critical stage for students completing Grade 9 of the basic school cycle.
Minister of National Education and Scientific Research, François Havyarimana, presided over the official launch of the exam at Communal Lycée of Butezi, located in Giharo Commune, Rutana Province. The Minister encouraged students to face the exam with confidence, reminding them it is not their first academic challenge and urging them to work diligently to secure placement in competitive boarding schools, where admissions are expected to increase by 5,000 students in the upcoming academic year.
Minister of National Education and Scientific Research, François Havyarimana
At the Butezi exam center, five schools are represented: Rugondo, Kibingo 1, Kibingo 2, Rubanga, and Sarutoki. Of the 147 students expected at this location, only 124 were present, with 23 having dropped out prior to the exam.Following the launch, Minister Havyarimana visited additional national exam centers, including Lycée of Rutana and Karemba in Itaba Commune, Gitega Province.
In each center, he took the opportunity to speak directly to students, offering encouragement and stressing the importance of education for the country’s development.Nationwide, a total of 85,210 students are participating in the exam, which is being conducted in 908 centers across the country under the supervision of 2,982 teachers.
Notably, this year’s candidate pool includes more girls than boys, a trend the Minister highlighted as a positive indication of growing interest among girls in pursuing education.“The increased participation of girls shows that they are becoming more engaged and committed to their studies than boys,” Minister Havyarimana stated.
To ensure fairness and transparency in the examination process, the Ministry emphasized the importance of adhering to the established calendar. Results are expected to be published on June 25, 2025, and students will have until July 5, 2025, to submit any appeals or reclamations. After that deadline, no further complaints will be considered.
The National Certification and Orientation Exam is a pivotal step in shaping the future of thousands of Burundian youth, providing access to advanced education opportunities and contributing to the nation’s long-term human capital development.
