Cantine school meals maintained for CEP 2026 candidates in Benin

The Beninese government has taken a decisive step to support primary school pupils preparing for the 2026 Certificat d’Études Primaires (CEP) exams. In an official announcement, Salimane Karimou, Minister of Preschool and Primary Education, has ordered the continuation of school canteen services during the exam period, running from June 1 to June 4, 2026.

Ensuring stability for schools already benefiting from meal programs

This directive applies exclusively to schools participating in the National Integrated School Feeding Program (PNASI). For these institutions, the midday break will not mean sending students home or forcing them to find food elsewhere. Instead, they will receive a warm, nutritious meal on-site, maintaining their usual routine.

Prioritizing student performance and well-being

Salimane Karimou emphasized that suspending meal services during this critical academic period could negatively impact candidates’ performance. In a letter to regional directors, he noted:

« Many CEP candidates rely on these meals daily throughout their school years. Removing this support during the exam period could lead to physiological stress or hunger, ultimately affecting their concentration during afternoon sessions. »

A meticulously planned logistical operation

The nationwide implementation of this service requires meticulous coordination. Regional directors have been instructed to ensure that food supplies are stocked and service providers remain operational throughout the four-day exam period. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to recognizing school canteens not just as a social service, but as a key factor in academic success.

By maintaining nutritional stability, the Ministry of Education ensures that candidates from beneficiary schools face their exams with focused minds and well-nourished bodies.

What parents need to know

Families of students in affected schools can rest assured that the meal service will operate as usual until the final exam papers are submitted on June 4, 2026.