Benin's Minister of Primary and Maternal Education, Armand Kuyema Natta, conducted a series of surprise visits to schools in the Atacora and Donga regions from October 28 to 31, 2026. This tour aimed to monitor the start of the 2026-2027 academic year and assess the reopening of previously closed schools due to security concerns. Natta was accompanied by his cabinet director, Dewanou Avodagbe, and other ministry officials.
During his visit, Natta inspected eight school districts: Tanguiéta, Kérou, Ouassa-Péhunco, Kouandé, Natitingou, Copargo, Djougou, and Bassila. Some of the schools visited included the public primary schools of Kouarfa, Tampobre, Tora, Kouba, and Kabou. These schools had been closed during the 2025-2026 academic year due to security threats but reopened for the new academic year.
Natta encouraged teachers and school directors to continue their work despite challenges. He assured them of the government's support, stating, "The state stands by your side. We must not give in to fear. Good luck in what you do for our children. We are here and will always be here." The minister also evaluated the progress of pedagogical activities and the functioning of school canteens.
The minister and his delegation identified some irregularities and provided instructions for correction. They emphasized the need to improve learning outcomes in French and mathematics, as well as the accuracy of school statistics. Educational stakeholders raised concerns about infrastructure, teacher shortages, recruitment age for aspiring teachers, and work environment improvements.
Natta assured that these concerns would be considered for examination and finding suitable solutions. The tour in Atacora and Donga follows similar visits to other regions, including the Atlantic, Zou, Mono, Couffo, Littoral, Ouémé, Plateau, Borgou, and Alibori. The minister's visits aim to ensure a smooth academic year and address challenges faced by schools.
The reopening of previously closed schools is a positive development for the education sector in Benin. Natta's visits demonstrate the government's commitment to providing quality education and addressing security concerns. The minister's engagement with stakeholders and assessment of school conditions will help inform policy decisions and resource allocation.
The visits also highlight the challenges faced by schools in Benin, particularly in rural areas. The government's efforts to address these challenges and improve the education sector are crucial for the country's development. The outcome of Natta's visits and the implementation of proposed solutions will be closely watched by stakeholders.
Key points
- Benin's Education Minister Armand Natta conducted a tour of schools in Atacora and Donga to assess the 2026-2027 academic year and address security concerns.
- The minister visited eight school districts and inspected several schools that had been closed due to security threats but reopened for the new academic year.
- Natta encouraged teachers and school directors to continue their work and assured them of the government's support.
