Burkina faso: The Ministry of Higher Education announced on Tuesday the exceptional granting of a one-year reprieve to students to allow them to comply with new legal provisions regarding studies. These provisions stipulate the exclusion of students who obtain an average of 00/20 in more than 40% of the subjects in a semester of a bachelor's degree or an average of 00/20 in more than 30% of the subjects in a semester of a master's degree.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the chief of staff of the ministry in charge of Higher Education, Honorat Roger Charles Nebie, announced during a press conference that learners would be granted a moratorium on the application of article 36 of decree no. 2025-244 and article 37 of decree no. 2025-245, postponed for the year 2026-2027. This allows students initially affected by the exclusion for the 2025-2026 academic year to re-enroll and continue their studies for the 2026-2027 academic year.

In August 2025, two decrees were issued concerning the general system of studies for bachelor's and master's degrees in public and private higher education institutions. These texts aim to streamline study pathways by harmonizing passing averages, instituting the correction of internship reports in professional bachelor's degrees, and setting up a single annual resit session, among other things.

The chief of staff revealed that the first results from these decrees showed that out of more than 36,000 registered students, a significant number did not participate in assessments or accumulated zero grades in several disciplines. The ministry's secretary general, Samuel Pare, indicated that these results reflect challenges such as poor attendance, student disengagement, problems with academic guidance, and insufficient academic preparation.

In response, the government granted a one-year moratorium to allow students and institutions to adapt to these new rules. This decision provides a second chance for previously excluded students to re-enroll and continue their studies, emphasizing the importance of responsibility.

Mr. Pare clarified that the measures adopted remain relevant and properly implemented, though their strictness surprised some unprepared actors. He mentioned that awareness campaigns have been conducted, highlighting the need for improved communication regarding these reforms.

The authorities have communicated that the 2025-2026 academic year will serve as a transitional phase. From 2026-2027 onwards, the new rules will be rigorously enforced, offering students the opportunity to recover and providing the university system the necessary time to adapt to a more structured and efficient higher education framework.