The Bulgarian Minister of Education and Science announced new maturity examination dates in case the national lockdown remains in place beyond May 13. He also stood behind the proposal for external evaluation of the tests.
The maturity exams may be rescheduled for May 30 and June 1, the examinations after 7th grade for June 13 and June 15 and those after 4th grade for May 29 and May 30.
The final decision about the examination dates will be announced next week.
Minister Velchev admitted that there were technical difficulties in the process of transitioning towards online education but given the extreme circumstances and short notice it was to be expected. He also explained that some of the time planning issues were due to the inability of school children to adapt to the new learning environment.
The Ministry of Education and Science is currently evaluating the performance of the e-learning program.
Minister Vulchev also confirmed that the school year is not going to be extended as schools progress at different pace. Once the schools are opened teachers would have to make sure all children have caught up with the teaching material.
Vulchev also stressed that “the Ministry put much efforts in order to handle the situation on such a short notice.”
In regards to the external evaluation of the maturity exams Valchev explained that everything is in place and it would be the better option given the complicated situation.
National school olympics will not be held which may be a problem for some children as they also count to their general scoring. The Ministry of Education and Science explained that it is already working on the issue.
Translation: Ivaylo Yotov
