The ModA exams, conducted digitally for 4th and 6th-grade students in subjects such as Portuguese, Mathematics, History and Geography of Portugal, and English, took place from May 19 to June 6.
In a report sent to Lusa, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation (MECI) stated that a total of 617,000 exams were administered, achieving an “average completion rate above 90%”.
The ministry noted, “Overall, the ModA exams proceeded smoothly and calmly, with occasional logistical glitches that schools resolved immediately without hindering students from taking the exams.”
According to MECI, the digital format for these exams, similar to the final exams for the 3rd cycle that started today, had been in preparation by schools and ministry services since November. This included surveys with directors before and after trial exams conducted in February and in preparation for the official exams.
“After each survey, MECI services reached out to individual schools to assist in resolving reported issues,” noted the office of Minister Fernando Alexandre.
In addition to this support, the ministry authorized 15.4 million euros for the purchase and repair of computers or other IT equipment, although nearly half of the budget remains unused by the schools.
“Regarding the final exams for the 9th grade, MECI authorized the hiring of 27 IT network specialists for the 27 school groups that identified this need following the last survey,” the ministry added.
Although the ModA exams are mandatory, they do not count toward student assessment. Nonetheless, at the beginning of the next academic year, schools will receive reports for each student and school, with a national report and municipal reports expected to be released in November.
