Dori: The governor of the Liptako and Soum region, Abdoul Karim Zongo, officially launched the 2026 Junior High School Certificate (BEPC) exams this Tuesday at the Dori Provincial High School. A total of 1,733 candidates, including 910 girls, are taking part in this exam across the region's various provinces.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the regional director of Secondary Education and Vocational and Technical Training of Liptako and Soum, Salifou Porgo, detailed that the 2026 session of the BEPC features 1,733 candidates, of which 910 are girls and 823 are boys. The province of S©no leads with the highest number of registered candidates, totaling 1,052, including 567 girls and 485 boys. This is followed by the province of Oudalan, which has 357 candidates, divided between 189 girls and 168 boys.

In Djelgodji province, 251 candidates are taking the exams, including 136 girls and 115 boys. The Yagha province has registered 39 candidates, with 15 girls and 24 boys participating. Lastly, the Karo-Peli province has a total of 34 candidates, comprising 3 girls and 31 boys.

For the Vocational Studies Certificate (BEP), only the province of S©no is represented, with 71 registered candidates, including 28 girls and 43 boys. To ensure the smooth running of the exams, ten examination boards and four secondary centers have been established in the region. These measures are in place to facilitate access to exam venues and to ensure optimal conditions for the tests.

Mr. Porgo commended the dedication of administrative authorities, the Defense and Security Forces (FDS), and the educational community. He noted that their efforts have been instrumental in creating the necessary conditions for the successful execution of this year's session. At the conclusion of the official launch, Governor Abdoul Karim Zongo encouraged the candidates to approach the exams with calmness, discipline, and confidence, aiming for commendable results for the region.

He also extended his gratitude to all education system stakeholders and partners who contributed to the organization of this session. The governor paid special tribute to the Defense and Security Forces for securing the school year, acknowledging their sacrifices with the saying, "When the masks dance, we must congratulate those who have not slept," highlighting their crucial role in allowing students to complete their school year under safe conditions.