The Private Secondary Education Authority (PSEA) in Mauritius is contemplating the closure of several subsidized colleges due to low student enrollment. These colleges, which are funded by the state, have been struggling to attract students, with many facing financial difficulties as a result. The PSEA, which manages these colleges, pays a significant portion of their expenses, including teacher and non-teacher salaries, building rent, and other operational costs.
According to the PSEA, the decision to close these colleges is aimed at economizing state finances. However, this move has sparked concerns about the impact on the education sector and the communities served by these colleges. The PSEA has been revising the 'New Comprehensive Grant' provided to these colleges, which has been a point of contention between the PSEA and college managers. The grant is used to cover various expenses, including laboratory and playground maintenance.
The PSEA's decision to close colleges with low enrollment is based on a 2003 ministerial decision that set a minimum student population of 150 for subsidized colleges. This threshold was later increased to 175 for colleges with foundation or extended programs. However, with a decline in student enrollment in recent years, many colleges are struggling to meet this threshold. According to statistics from June 2026, the secondary school population in Mauritius decreased by 4,129 students.
The decline in student enrollment has been attributed to several factors, including the popularity of state colleges and 'demand schools' that attract most of the students who pass their PSAC exams. As a result, smaller colleges are finding it challenging to attract students and sustain their operations. The PSEA's decision to close these colleges has raised concerns about the future of these institutions and their contribution to the education sector.
Experts argue that the minimum student population threshold should be revised to reflect the current education landscape. In 2003, the student population in subsidized colleges was 107,442, while in 2026, it has decreased to 88,468. Based on this trend, some argue that the minimum student population threshold should be adjusted to around 120 students. Additionally, there are calls to stop allocating foundation students to 'demand schools' that already have over 1,000 students.
Dr. Hassam Sakibe Coowar, an education expert, has expressed concerns about the PSEA's decision, citing the need for a more nuanced approach that takes into account the unique circumstances of each college. He argues that the PSEA should consider the contribution of these colleges to the education sector and their potential for future growth. The PSEA's decision is pending approval from the Minister of Education.
The proposed closure of underpopulated subsidized colleges has sparked a heated debate about the future of education in Mauritius. While the PSEA's decision aims to optimize state resources, critics argue that it may have unintended consequences on the education sector and the communities served by these colleges. The outcome of this decision will likely have a significant impact on the education landscape in Mauritius.
Key points
- The PSEA's decision to close underpopulated subsidized colleges aims to economize state finances.
- The minimum student population threshold for subsidized colleges was set at 150 in 2003 and later increased to 175 for colleges with foundation or extended programs.
- Experts argue that the minimum student population threshold should be revised to reflect the current education landscape.
