The choice between Option A and Option B for the Brevet d’études du premier cycle (BEPC) exam is over. Starting from the 2026-2027 school year, all 3rd-year (classe de 3ème) students will be required to take the English exam, which is now mandatory. Two new subjects have also been introduced: Arts and “Fanabeazana ho Olompirenena Vanona” (FOV – Citizenship Education). These are the most visible changes introduced by the new curriculum (PE), resulting from the curricular reform of the Malagasy education system.
During the last BEPC exam session in July 2026, 327,815 candidates were registered. Among them, 174,760 had chosen Option A, known as “languages and humanities,” while 153,055 chose Option B, focused on “mathematics and sciences.” This distinction now disappears with the abolition of Option B.
For 3rd-year students, the curriculum includes 10 subjects: Malagasy, French, English, Mathematics, Physics, Life and Earth Sciences (SVT), History-Geography, Arts, and FOV, which is dedicated to responsible citizenship education. Physical and Sports Education (EPS) is also mandatory, with a recommended two-hour weekly session.
Of the 10 subjects, two have just been introduced: Arts, taught from the 5th year (T7), and FOV, starting from the 11th year (T1). The former consists of four components: visual arts, music, dance, and drama. FOV aims to train and educate students to adopt dignified and responsible behavior, covering four themes: respect for individuals and relationships with others, respect for rights and fulfillment of duties and responsibilities, patriotism, and social and financial education.
Beyond improving the quality of teaching and learning, the new curriculum also aims to strengthen communication, critical and creative thinking, autonomy, self-confidence, and students’ ability to solve concrete situations. The learning method is also evolving. Practical activities, educational outings, and mini-projects should take a more prominent place outside of traditional classes. These changes require public and private institutions to adapt. 3rd-year students should prepare for a BEPC exam where English will be mandatory for everyone and EPS will no longer be optional.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-14 19:23:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/education-loption-b-supprimee-de-lexamen-du-bepc-a-partir-de-cette-annee-scolaire-langlais-devient-une-matiere-obligatoire/