Mauritania's Minister of Education, Huda Babah, has emphasized that education reform is a strategic choice that cannot be reversed. In a speech marking the beginning of the 2026-2027 academic year, Babah highlighted the government's efforts to build a more quality, equitable, and attractive education system. The minister acknowledged the progress made in the education sector, citing the enrollment of all students in public schools for the first four years of basic education.
The minister reported that 2,283 teachers were recruited, bringing the total number of teachers hired since 2019 to 15,729. Additionally, 575 classrooms were completed during 2026, with 3,340 more expected to be finished soon. The government also provided 165,350 units of school uniforms and expanded school canteen services, benefiting 249,461 students. These efforts aim to improve the quality of education and provide equal opportunities for all students.
Babah highlighted the government's investment in teacher training, with 4,864 teachers and educational supervisors benefiting from specialized training programs. The sector has also developed a reference guide for teacher competence and adapted evaluation and monitoring tools. Furthermore, the "Tanwir" platform for continuous training was launched, and training rooms were equipped in various provinces.
The minister emphasized that the government's efforts have focused on developing curricula and educational materials. The writing of primary and middle school education programs was completed in accordance with the guiding law, and 1,800,600 school books were printed. The network of bookstores and sales points was also expanded to improve access to educational materials.
Babah stressed that the next stage of education reform will focus on improving the quality of education, enhancing learning outcomes, and increasing the attractiveness of educational institutions. The government will prioritize teacher training, develop evaluation and monitoring tools, and ensure that education is more inclusive and equitable. The Republican School project, a national initiative, aims to provide equal opportunities for all students.
The minister called on all stakeholders, including teachers, administrators, parents, and students, to work together to ensure the success of education reform. She emphasized that the government's efforts will not be enough without the support and commitment of all parties involved. Babah concluded by announcing the official start of the 2026-2027 academic year on October 5, 2026.
The Education Minister's speech reflects the government's commitment to education reform and its determination to build a more quality and equitable education system. The launch of the Republican School project and the various initiatives aimed at improving education demonstrate the government's efforts to provide opportunities for all students to succeed.
Key points
- The Mauritanian government has committed to education reform, with a focus on improving the quality of education and providing equal opportunities for all students.
