The Inspection générale des services (IGS) in Gabon has started a series of unannounced visits to private schools in Libreville offering the French curriculum. This move aims to verify the conformity of these schools to Gabon's regulations. The inspections follow a sensitization phase that began last year. The IGS is checking if these schools have the necessary authorization and accreditation to operate.
The operation was launched under the instruction of Camélia Ntoutoume Leclercq, the Minister of State for Education. The goal is to ensure that private schools comply with the country's education regulations. IGS Inspector General, Joachim Ondjila Ognele, stated that the objective is to have non-compliant schools regularize their situation before facing penalties. He warned that schools that fail to comply could face fines and even closure.
During the inspections, officials are checking for habilitation to found, authorization to open, and homologation of the French curriculum. They are also verifying the qualifications of teachers and the textbooks used. Ferdinand Patrick Mba Essono, an inspector of education administration, emphasized that schools must also provide education on national citizenship. He noted that it's essential for Gabonese students to learn about their country's values and culture.
The initial inspections at schools like Institut privé L'Érudit and Lycée Sainte-Thérèse de l'Enfant-Jésus revealed several administrative and pedagogical shortcomings. Inspectors checked for necessary documents, including accreditation for the French curriculum. Some schools acknowledged lacking the required homologation, but assured that they are taking steps to rectify the situation.
Wafaa El Herbawi, headmistress of Institut privé L'Érudit, acknowledged that her school lacks the necessary homologation but has other required documents. She confirmed that the school is pursuing the homologation process. The inspections are set to continue for a week, allowing the IGS to assess the situation and take action against non-compliant schools.
The IGS aims to establish a comprehensive understanding of private schools offering the French curriculum in Gabon. Inspectors will provide guidance to schools that are not in compliance, and those that fail to regularize their situation may face penalties. The goal is to ensure that all schools, public and private, provide quality education that aligns with national standards.
The inspections reflect the government's commitment to enforcing education regulations in Gabon. By verifying the accreditation and authorization of private schools, the authorities aim to provide students with a well-rounded education that includes national values and culture. The IGS will continue to monitor the situation and take action against schools that fail to comply with regulations.
Key points
- The inspections aim to ensure private schools comply with Gabon's education regulations.
- Schools lacking homologation for the French curriculum may face penalties.
- The goal is to provide students with a well-rounded education that includes national values and culture.
