Several candidates for the entrance exams to the Higher Teacher Training Colleges (ENS) and the Higher Technical Teacher Training College (ENSET) of Cameroon have expressed their dissatisfaction with the simultaneous scheduling of the tests. Scheduled for the same day, March 15, 2026, the ENS exams in Buea and the ENSET in Kumba pose a major problem for candidates who have applied to both institutions.
"I registered for both exams. Now they are scheduled for the same day. How are we going to organize ourselves?" asks an anonymous candidate, reflecting the concern shared by many applicants. This situation forces candidates to make a choice, thus nullifying their preparation efforts and the registration fees incurred.
According to an official statement from the Ministry of Higher Education, the exams will take place simultaneously in all examination centers in the country. While this measure aims to ensure administrative uniformity, it ignores the reality that many candidates apply to multiple institutions to increase their chances of admission. For many, this strategy is seen as the only realistic path to higher education and the civil service, given the high competition.
Education sector analysts point to a lack of consultation and consideration of student realities in the planning of these exams. A university professor from the South-West region stated that this type of schedule gives the impression that the system favors bureaucracy over student well-being.
Faced with this situation, candidates are calling for an urgent review of the exam schedule, proposing a postponement of one of the tests or special arrangements for candidates registered for both exams. They believe that, without prompt intervention, many qualified students could be unfairly deprived of crucial opportunities for their professional future. As March 15 approaches, uncertainty remains for many candidates, and stakeholders are calling on the ministry to take corrective action.
