The 2026-2027 school year was officially launched in Chad's Batha province on October 1st, with a ceremony presided over by Minister of State for Education, Dr. Mahamat Ahmad Alhabo. The event, held in Ati, brought together administrative and educational authorities, teachers, parents, students, and sector partners. The ceremony marked a significant step towards improving the education system in the province.
The Conseil provincial du Batha announced plans to recruit 100 volunteers for education, aiming to enhance the quality of education. Additionally, the council revealed initiatives to provide new furniture, including tables and benches, and to rehabilitate certain high schools. The construction of water points in schools is also planned, highlighting a focus on creating a more conducive learning environment.
The province of Batha currently has 550 primary schools, with 459 operational, as well as 18 middle schools and 9 high schools. The figures were presented by the government's delegate to the Batha, General Ahmat Goukouni Mourali. The region's educational infrastructure faces challenges, but efforts are being made to address these issues and improve access to quality education.
The launch of the new school year also marks the introduction of bilingual French-Arabic education. Dr. Alhabo announced that bilingual education will start in the first year of primary school, with an emphasis on teacher training and the availability of educational materials. This development aims to promote linguistic diversity and enhance educational outcomes.
The bilingual education initiative is part of a broader effort to create a more inclusive and accessible education system. The theme of the new school year, "A bilingual school in the service of a nation," reflects this goal. Minister Alhabo called on all stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and students, to work together to improve learning conditions in the Batha province.
The Conseil provincial du Batha has received support from international organizations, including the World Food Programme (WFP) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), for its education initiatives. The president of the council, Rakhis Ahmat Saleh, expressed gratitude for this support, highlighting its importance in maintaining children in school and promoting education.
As the new school year begins, the focus is on creating a better learning environment and improving educational outcomes. With the recruitment of volunteers, upgrades to infrastructure, and the introduction of bilingual education, the Batha province is taking steps towards achieving these goals. The collaboration of all stakeholders will be crucial in driving progress and ensuring a successful school year.
Key points
- The Batha province plans to recruit 100 volunteers for education and upgrade educational infrastructure.
- Bilingual French-Arabic education will be introduced in the first year of primary school.
- The province has 550 primary schools, with 459 operational, and 18 middle schools and 9 high schools.
