This September 9, 2024, approximately three million students at nursery, primary and secondary levels in Cameroon returned to school after three months of vacation. The start of the school year concerns the entire national territory, but several regions in crisis, notably the North-West, the South-West and the Far North, are experiencing particular challenges.
Security measures in crisis zones
In the English-speaking regions of the country (North-West and South-West), where tension has persisted for several years now, the authorities have assured that all necessary measures have been taken to guarantee a safe return to school. However, many parents prefer to enroll their children in schools located in urban areas, which are considered safer.
In the Far North, another region facing crises, notably floods which affect around 74,000 children, but back to school remains uncertain for some of the students. Local authorities continue to work to minimize the impacts of this natural disaster on the start of the school year.
New developments in secondary education: The single registration number
This year, a major innovation is being introduced into the secondary education system, the implementation of the single matriculation number for students, from form 1 to final year. This number is intended to strengthen the identification and security of students, is accessible via cartescolaire.cm which is the platform of the Ministry of Secondary Education. Before obtaining it, students must pay their fees for the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) to the mobile telephone operatorpartner of the ministry a prerequisite for registration.
This measure aims to strengthen student monitoring and simplify the administrative management of educational establishments.
By PETER TAMBE
