Kérouané, June 23, 2025 — Courage sometimes emerges in the most heart-wrenching circumstances, and Mariame Damaro Camara is a living testament to that. Just moments before the start of the 2025 national baccalaureate exams in Kérouané, this high school student unexpectedly went into labor near her examination center.
Enrolled in the Social Sciences stream at Sékouba Sacko High School, Mariame gave birth in emergency conditions, without access to proper medical care. Tragically, her newborn did not survive.
Despite the emotional shock and her fragile physical state, Mariame made the heartbreaking yet inspiring decision to return to the examination room and sit for the tests.
Her act of resilience and determination has moved many across the region. Teachers, fellow candidates, and education authorities at the exam center expressed admiration for her strength in the face of such a devastating personal loss.
The incident has not only highlighted the extraordinary courage of a young woman determined to pursue her education against all odds, but also raised serious concerns about the support systems in place for pregnant girls in schools.
Local education officials have pledged to provide Mariame with psychological and medical support to help her continue with the rest of the exam process in safer conditions.
Regardless of the exam results, Mariame Damaro Camara is already seen by many as a symbol of bravery and hope — a true fighter who chose resilience over despair.
Mirroir Guinea
