The Côte d'Ivoire education ministry has prohibited teachers from offering paid private lessons to their own students. According to Zamblé Bi Zamblé Germain, Director of Schools, Lycées, and Collèges, this practice has been reported in several schools and raises concerns about ethics and professional conduct. The ban was announced in a note published on October 1, 2026.
The Director emphasized that teachers have a public service mission, and their primary responsibility is to provide quality education during regular school hours. The ministry expects teachers to provide explicit, accessible, and adapted lessons to meet students' needs, without conditioning academic success on additional payments. This move aims to promote fairness and equal access to education.
The ban targets a common practice where teachers offer private lessons outside regular school hours for a fee. The ministry argues that this creates unequal opportunities for students, as those who cannot afford these extra lessons may be disadvantaged. By prohibiting paid private lessons, the government hopes to ensure that all students have an equal chance to succeed academically.
Teachers are now expected to focus on delivering high-quality education during regular school hours. The ministry encourages educators to develop innovative teaching methods and strategies to support students' learning and progress. By doing so, students will not need to rely on private lessons to keep up with their peers.
Zamblé Bi Zamblé Germain expressed concern that the practice of offering paid private lessons undermines the principles of the teaching profession. He urged teachers to respect the ban and prioritize the quality of education provided during regular school hours. The ministry will monitor the situation to ensure compliance with the new directive.
The Côte d'Ivoire education ministry has taken steps to address concerns about teaching quality and student outcomes. Recently, nearly 3,000 teachers were trained in the pedagogical use of artificial intelligence. This training aims to enhance teachers' skills and provide students with a more engaging and effective learning experience.
The ban on paid private lessons is part of a broader effort to promote equity and fairness in the education system. By providing equal access to quality education, the government hopes to improve student outcomes and reduce disparities in academic achievement. The ministry will continue to work with teachers and schools to ensure the successful implementation of this new policy.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire bans paid private lessons by teachers to their own students.
- The ban aims to promote fairness and equal access to education.
- Teachers are expected to focus on delivering high-quality education during regular school hours.
