Deaths Reported During 2025 9th Grade Fundamental Exams in Haiti

PORT-AU-PRINCE. —The National Bureau of State Examinations (BUNEXE) presented, this Friday, July 4, 2025, the report on the progress of the 9th grade fundamental exams. Two deaths were recorded during these exams, officials confirmed.

Indeed, a first case was identified in Delmas, where a student lost consciousness due to stress. Rushed to the hospital, he was unfortunately declared dead. The second case was reported in the commune of Lascahobas. Faced with the panic caused by an imminent attack by armed gangs in the area, several people attempted to flee precipitously. In the confusion, a student was fatally struck by a vehicle, reported the Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (MENFP).

The tragic incident in Lascahobas led to the complete suspension of exams in that commune. Ministry authorities announced that arrangements would be made to organize the resumption of the disrupted exams as soon as possible.

Despite these incidents, the MENFP expressed satisfaction at having successfully completed nearly 80% of these end-of-3rd-cycle exams. However, authorities acknowledged the difficulties encountered, particularly in the Cul-de-Sac plain, where examination centers had to be relocated due to the presence of armed groups.

This year, over 187,000 students took part in the final 9th grade fundamental exams. Additionally, 2,307 candidates participated in the exams for the Teacher Training College and Kindergarten Teachers, and 424 others from Family Education Centers. This represents a 96% participation rate among registered candidates. Now, apart from corrections, attention turns to the Baccalaureate exams.

Jean Mapou