The 2026-2027 school year officially commenced in Benin on September 14, 2026. According to reports from the Ministry's services, classes have started at different educational levels, despite some difficulties related to the deployment of certain teachers and the condition of school facilities. The situation was monitored at three levels: strategic, ministerial, and departmental and school levels.
At the strategic level, officials followed the situation through information provided by various stakeholders. The official launch was conducted in Cotonou in several schools and was covered by the press. In the departments, prefects and departmental directors also proceeded with the launch of the school year. Initial reports indicate that pedagogical activities have effectively resumed in schools.
Out of over 17,000 Aspiring Teachers (Ame) deployed between September 10 and 11, statistics show that 2,402 women and 15,097 men had already taken up their positions in classrooms. However, a few cases of Ame remain pending deployment. To address difficulties encountered by some agents, the availability confirmation platform was reopened for 24 hours, then 48 hours. Nearly a dozen Ame facing difficulties related to internet access still need support.
In the higher education, scientific research, and technical and vocational training sectors, reports also indicate that staff have taken up their positions. Specifically, 102 women and 582 men in higher education, and 7 women and 15 men in vocational training, have started work. The government is engaged in several initiatives to improve learning conditions, including the construction of digital rooms for e-learning and the construction and rehabilitation of schools.
Several actions are being taken to improve school infrastructure. New digital rooms are being built to support e-learning. Some schools are benefiting from construction and rehabilitation projects that meet standards, particularly in terms of inclusion for people with disabilities and access to sanitary facilities for girls. The government announced the provision of an initial batch of 12,000 desks and benches to improve the learning environment for 24,000 students.
Despite progress, the school year is marked by the need for stricter control in private schools. Complaints about potential extra fees have been reported. Departmental directors are tasked with investigating and taking necessary measures. The registration of clandestine private schools, pedagogical inspections, and the reporting of dysfunctions are also control mechanisms.
The government remains committed to addressing the challenges facing the education sector. With the resumption of classes, stakeholders are working to ensure that the school year progresses smoothly. Ongoing efforts aim to improve the quality of education and the learning environment for all students in Benin.
Key points
- The 2026-2027 school year started in Benin on September 14, 2026, with effective resumption of classes.
- Over 17,000 Aspiring Teachers were deployed, with 2,402 women and 15,097 men taking up their positions.
- The government is investing in infrastructure, including digital rooms and 12,000 desks and benches.
