Holidays in Burkina Faso: School closures prohibited before July 15th, the ministry warns

The Ministry of Basic Education, Literacy and the Promotion of National Languages ​​is warning preschool and primary schools against any attempt to prematurely close the 2025-2026 school year. In an official statement published on May 08, it reiterates that the end of the school year is set for Wednesday, July 15, 2026, and demands strict adherence to the current calendar.

This clarification comes after the observation that some establishments, both public and private, are already planning to close school activities as early as the end of May, in violation of regulations, the note specifies.

The ministry emphasizes that this practice is contrary to Joint Decree No. 2026/043/MEBAPLN/MESEFPT of March 13, 2026, which governs the 2025-2026 school calendar. It also reiterates that the Artistic and Cultural Month (MAC), scheduled from June 15 to July 15, 2026, is a mandatory activity integrated into the official program.

"Regional and provincial directors, district heads and school principals are required to ensure the strict application of the provisions in force. They are called upon to maintain all educational and cultural activities until the official closing date of the school year," the note specifies.

The ministry also insists on strict adherence to the school calendar, which it considers an essential condition for ensuring the harmonization of the education system across the entire territory of Burkina Faso.

Djamila Kambou