As the new academic year commences in Egypt, families are once again faced with the daunting task of covering the rising costs of education. According to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics, the annual inflation rate in Egypt stood at 12.7% in August 2026, with the education sector experiencing a notable surge in prices. This increase reflects the ongoing financial pressures that families endure as the academic year begins.
The cost of education in Egypt varies significantly depending on the type of school, location, and services provided. In public schools, the Ministry of Education has set the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year at a few hundred pounds, as per Ministerial Decision No. 116 of 2026. However, these fees do not represent the total cost that families bear throughout the year, as additional expenses such as external textbooks, study materials, uniforms, transportation, and activities can be substantial.
One of the most significant financial burdens on Egyptian families is the phenomenon of private lessons, which many students rely on to supplement their education. This has led some parents to feel that they are paying for education twice – once through the official system and again through private lessons or tutorial services. The issue of private lessons cannot be attributed solely to teachers, as it is a complex problem with multiple factors that have accumulated over the years.
To address this issue, a comprehensive review is necessary, involving all concerned parties, particularly the Ministry of Education. There is a need for schools where students can rely on their teachers, and for educators to receive fair compensation. The curriculum should focus on understanding rather than memorization, and the evaluation system should not force families to seek alternative educational services outside of school.
The Egyptian government and educational institutions must work together to reduce the financial burden on families. This includes not only school fees but also the overall cost of education throughout the year, encompassing books, transportation, activities, devices, and private lessons. Education is a fundamental right and should not be a luxury that only those who can afford it can access.
Families in Egypt are not demanding the impossible; they want access to quality education, competent teachers, and a fair system that is affordable. If education is the key to improving citizens' lives, it should not be a source of financial strain for families. The goal is for students to receive a good education within the formal system, eliminating the need for additional, costly educational services.
As the new academic year begins, Egyptian families hope for a more manageable and equitable education system. This includes ensuring that schools provide quality education, teachers are adequately compensated, and the curriculum and evaluation methods are designed to support students' learning without placing undue financial burdens on their families.
Key points
- Egyptian families face significant financial burdens due to rising education costs, including school fees, books, uniforms, transportation, and private lessons.
- The phenomenon of private lessons is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive review and solution.
- There is a need for a fair and affordable education system in Egypt that provides quality education without placing undue financial strain on families.
