Secondary Education: Students Celebrate Academic Calendar Shift

The Ministry of Secondary Education (Minesec) has officially adjusted the 2025/2026 academic calendar, pushing the third-term resumption to Monday, April 27, 2026. This decision has sparked widespread relief and excitement among secondary and high school students across the nation who now have an additional week to prepare for the final stretch of the school year.

Secondary school students in Cameroon – photo credit, Social media

A Dual Celebration of Sport and Faith

Secondary Education minister, Nalova Lyonga – photo credit, Minesec

The decision, sanctioned by the Prime Minister and Head of Government, stems from a unique overlap of two major national events.

The National Federation for School Sports Fenasco League « A » National Finals, originally scheduled for earlier in the month, have been moved to take place from April 19 to 26, 2026, in the cities of Bafoussam and Bangangté.

Simultaneously, the nation is preparing for the historic visit of Pope Leo XIV.

Minister Pauline Nalova Lyonga stated that this rescheduling ensures the sporting events receive proper focus while allowing the educational community the opportunity to witness the Papal visit.

Student Perspectives on the Extended Break

Students following lessons in class – photo credit, Mimi news

For students in examination classes, the shift is seen as a strategic blessing.

Mbuh Glen, an Upper Sixth student at Government Bilingual High School Etoug-Ebe, noted that the extra week provides a vital window for mental rest and strategic planning ahead of the GCE A-Level exams.

Similarly, Ateh Alvine, a Form Five student at English High School, plans to use the time for a family vacation to clear her mind.

Evening school students like Bafoh Delphine appreciate the chance to balance personal business and social life after a period of intense academic pressure.

Special Measures in the Mfoundi Division

Specific local adjustments have also been made to accommodate the peak of the national festivities.

In compliance with instructions from the Regional Delegate, the Divisional Delegate for Mfoundi has suspended all academic and administrative activities, including scheduled catch-up classes, from April 14 to April 19, 2026.

This temporary pause ensures that the local community can fully engage with the diplomatic and religious milestones before returning to a focused and rigorous school environment at the end of the month.

By Ndifon Anna Ting