CEP 2026 exam preparations: Benin maintains school canteens for candidates

As the Primary School Certificate (CEP) exams in Benin approach, the government has taken a decisive step to ensure the well-being of young candidates. In an official directive, Salimane Karimou, Minister of Pre-School and Primary Education, has mandated the continuation of school canteen services during the exam sessions, scheduled from June 1 to June 4, 2026.

Ensuring continuity for supported schools

This measure specifically targets schools already benefiting from the National Integrated School Feeding Program (PNASI). For these institutions, the midday break won’t mean a return home or a scramble for food—it guarantees a hot meal on-site, just as it has throughout the school year.

Safeguarding candidate performance

Salimane Karimou underscores the critical importance of this decision, warning against disrupting meal cycles during the most pivotal academic period. In his communication to regional directors, he emphasized:

« Many CEP candidates rely on these meals daily since the start of their schooling. Withholding them during exams could severely undermine their performance. »

The overarching goal is to prevent physiological strain or hunger-induced stress that might distract afternoon exam takers.

A meticulously coordinated effort

Maintaining this service nationwide requires rigorous oversight. Regional directors have been tasked with ensuring sufficient stockpiles and operational providers throughout the four-day exam period. This move reinforces the canteen’s role as more than a social service—it’s a strategic tool for exam success.

By guaranteeing nutritional stability, the ministry aims to equip candidates from supported zones with a calm mind and a nourished body as they tackle their exams.

Parents of students in affected schools can rest assured: the canteen program will proceed as usual until the last exam papers are submitted on June 4.