MP Salim Sayegh called on students to continue preparing for official examinations despite growing concerns over security conditions, while urging the Education Ministry to reassess its plans in light of the country’s worsening exceptional circumstances.

Sayegh, a member of Parliament’s Education Committee, said discussions with Education Minister had lasted nearly four hours as officials reviewed whether nationwide examinations could proceed as scheduled amid ongoing security risks.

Speaking to Voice of Lebanon radio and VDL 24 television, Sayegh stressed that any decision must balance educational standards with the safety of students and their families.

“We remain committed to a number of fundamental principles, foremost among them preserving Lebanon’s educational standards, advancing the education sector, and protecting Lebanon’s international reputation,” Sayegh said. “Schools are the only institution that still enjoys the confidence of the international community.”

He said the parliamentary Education Committee had formally asked the ministry to reconsider the issue as conditions continue to deteriorate.

“For that reason, we requested that the ministry review the matter in light of the increasingly difficult exceptional circumstances, which require a reassessment of its decision,” he said.

Despite the concerns, Sayegh emphasized that preserving the official certificate remains a priority and urged students not to alter their preparations.

“Our guiding principle is to do everything possible to preserve the official diploma, which is a right,” he said. “I want to be very clear in asking all students and parents to prepare for the examinations as though they will take place.”

He noted, however, that the key factor in determining whether the ministry can move forward with the exams will be the ability to guarantee safe access to examination centers.

“The Internal Security Forces say security can be ensured inside the examination centers,” Sayegh said. “But the army has indicated that it cannot provide guarantees regarding students’ travel to and from those centers.”

He added that the issue must be resolved before the examinations begin.

“Therefore, a final decision must be taken at the appropriate time ahead of the exams,” he said.