Over 300,000 candidates chose Category A schools despite 76,417 vacancies – Education Ministry
The Education Ministry has explained that the concentration of demand for Category A schools is a major factor behind challenges encountered during the 2026 Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) exercise. Press Secretary to the Minister for Education, Hashmin Mohammed, said 313,283 candidates selected Category A schools as their first choice, despite only 76,417 vacancies being declared in that category. Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Monday, September 7, 2026, Mr Mohammed said the overall placement system had declared 859,828 vacancies across schools nationwide.