Optional exam topics in Baccalaureate

Algerian education minister Nouria Benghebrit Sunday said the next school year will start on September 6th for pupils and September 1st for teachers. She authorized pupils living in the south and high lands not to take exams in French language.

“Schools administration will resume work on August 25^th. Studies must start on the first day of the school year. Three regional conferences will be held ahead of March’s competitive examinations to recruit teachers,” the minister told a news conference.

Speaking about the 2015 Baccalaureate exam, she said it will be held as usual without any changes. Candidates will have to answer two optional exam topics and 30 additional minutes compared to last year.

She added that teachers will schedule classes in May to train pupils on how to choose an exam topic.

Asked about teachers’ strike due to be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, the minister said she allocated 500 hours to talk to social partners and meetings are still going on.

“It’s time to agree upon a unique position in order to preserve pupils’ interest. Pupils will lose concentration and motivation because of this two-day strike,” she said.