On October 5, 2026, Mauritian Education Minister Mahend Gungapersad addressed the controversy surrounding the Forest-Side Secondary College. The minister expressed his hope that an upcoming statement from the Private Secondary Education Authority (PSEA) would put an end to the speculation. Gungapersad made these comments while participating in celebrations for World Teachers' Day at the Louis Eugène Fabien Teachers' Centre in Quatre-Bornes.
The Forest-Side Secondary College, led by Reza Saumtally, a member of parliament for constituency number 10 and director of the OCEP, has sparked concerns among education professionals. The controversy centers around the authorization granted to this new institution, particularly in light of plans to reorganize the private secondary education sector starting January 2027. Several private colleges are set to close or merge, while three subsidized colleges will have their subsidies terminated.
As part of the reorganization, the Council of Ministers decided on September 25, 2026, to discontinue subsidies to St Bartholomew's College in Port-Louis and Royal Holloway College in Montagne-Blanche, effective January 2027. These changes have raised questions about the future of private education in Mauritius and the criteria for authorizing new institutions.
Reza Saumtally, as the director of the Forest-Side Secondary College, has significant influence in the education sector. His dual roles as a member of parliament and director of the OCEP have led some to question potential conflicts of interest. The PSEA's forthcoming statement is expected to address these concerns and provide clarity on the college's authorization.
The Mauritian education sector is bracing for significant changes in the coming months. With several private colleges facing closure or merger, and subsidies being phased out, stakeholders are closely watching the developments. The government's efforts to reorganize the sector aim to improve the quality and accessibility of education in Mauritius.
Minister Gungapersad's comments have provided some reassurance that the authorities are working to resolve the controversy. The PSEA's statement is anticipated to shed more light on the Forest-Side Secondary College's authorization and the government's plans for the education sector. This clarity is crucial for stakeholders, including students, parents, and education professionals.
The outcome of this controversy will likely have implications for the future of private education in Mauritius. As the sector undergoes significant changes, it is essential for the authorities to ensure that the needs of students and educators are met while maintaining high standards of education.
Key points
- The Mauritian Education Minister hopes for a resolution to the Forest-Side Secondary College controversy with an upcoming statement from the PSEA.
- The college's authorization has raised concerns among education professionals, particularly in light of plans to reorganize the private secondary education sector.
- The Mauritian education sector is set to undergo significant changes, including the closure or merger of several private colleges and the phase-out of subsidies to some institutions.