Vijonet Déméro, the Minister of National Education, reminds the educational community that October 17, 2026, will mark the 220th anniversary of the assassination of Emperor Jean-Jacques Dessalines.

To this end, the Departmental Directorates of Education (DDE) are instructed to organize socio-educational, pedagogical, and cultural events in all schools across the Republic on Thursday, October 15, and Friday, October 16. These events are intended to help students understand the military, political, and historical dimensions of this monumental figure.

It is recommended that these observances include debates, discussions, stage performances, lectures, and educational games—complemented by songs, dances, and patriotic music—to help students better internalize the "Dessalinian Legacy."

The MENFP also encourages public and private universities—in their capacity as catalysts and guardians of civic consciousness—to participate in this commemoration.

The Directorate of Preschool Education, as well as the Directorates of Fundamental and Secondary Education, are directed to work in coordination with the DDEs to ensure the implementation of the activities planned for this occasion.

Non-working day :

Marie E. Régine Joseph Haddad, Secretary General of the Presidency, wishes to inform public sector employees and the private sector that public administration, commerce, industry, and schools will be completely closed throughout the entire country on October 17, 2026 (Decree of December 11, 2024, Articles 1 and 2), in observance of the day commemorating the death of Jean-Jacques Dessalines.

IH/ iciHaiti