The Mauritian education sector is set to expand with the introduction of the Forest Side Secondary College, scheduled to open in January 2027. This new institution will occupy three distinct floors of a building that also houses the OCEP College Curepipe, with separate entrances for each school. The project was recently discussed during a meeting between the Private Secondary Education Authority (PSEA) and the Federation of Private College Managers.
The PSEA is currently in the evaluation phase for the Forest Side Secondary College, with no funds disbursed to date. According to Amita Boolauky, director of the PSEA, the authority is assessing the proposal, and the college's opening will depend on the outcome of this evaluation. The decision to open a new college has raised concerns among some private school managers, who question how the new institution will meet the required minimum of 150 students.
The announcement of the Forest Side Secondary College comes as some existing schools face declining enrollment or closure. Education Minister Dr. Mahend Gungapersad addressed these concerns, stating that the decision to open a new college is not contradictory to the challenges faced by the sector. He emphasized that the law allows for the opening of new schools when a proposal is submitted, and that the government cannot deny an individual the opportunity to contribute to the education system.
Dr. Gungapersad acknowledged that the Mauritian education sector is impacted by demographic changes, with a significant decline in student enrollment over the years. He noted that this trend is not unique to Mauritius, but rather a global phenomenon. The minister expressed a preference for existing schools to continue operating, but emphasized that decisions on new school openings are made after careful evaluation.
The process for opening a new school in Mauritius involves submitting a registration request to the Ministry of Education, along with required documents and information on potential subsidies. The minister can then conduct checks and make a decision, which may include conditions for the school's operation. The Education Act stipulates that schools must be registered and meet specific criteria to operate.
Dr. Reza Saumtally, the Member of Parliament behind the Forest Side Secondary College project, rejected allegations of political favoritism in the college's approval. He stated that his involvement in education is driven by a social commitment to provide opportunities for disadvantaged children. Saumtally explained that the project has been in development since 2014, with a new proposal submitted in January 2026.
The Forest Side Secondary College aims to provide educational opportunities for students in the area, with procedures currently underway to ensure a smooth opening in January 2027. Dr. Saumtally emphasized that the college has not yet begun operations and no funds have been disbursed. The project is proceeding in accordance with PSEA guidelines, and the college will operate independently of the OCEP College Curepipe.
Key points
- The Forest Side Secondary College is set to open in January 2027 in Mauritius.
- The new college's approval has sparked debate among private school managers.
- The Mauritian education sector faces challenges due to declining student enrollment.
