Cameroon Shuts Down 722 Illegal Schools in Education Sector Crackdown

These institutions, predominantly located in the Adamaoua, Centre, East, Littoral, West, and South-West regions, were found operating without official authorization. This crackdown is part of a comprehensive operation aimed at sanitizing the educational sector ahead of the 2024-2025 academic year.

The targeted schools exhibited numerous deficiencies, including inadequate facilities, poor-quality teaching materials, and unqualified staff. Some institutions had even obtained permissions through corrupt means. These shortcomings jeopardize the foundational education of young Cameroonians, posing a significant threat to their academic and professional futures.

The fight against unauthorized schools is not new in Cameroon. At the start of the 2022-2023 school year, 326 illegal schools had already been shut down. However, this number has now risen to 494 non-compliant institutions, underscoring the persistent challenge. Léopold Ymga Djamen, Regional Delegate of Basic Education in the Littoral region, voiced his frustration over the recurring issue:

“Some promoters persist in their illegality, whereas our goal is not merely to penalize,” Djamen stated. He emphasized the importance of entrusting education to competent professionals to ensure high-quality training: “Education is a priority and must be entrusted to qualified experts.”

The Ministry’s latest action underscores its commitment to upholding educational standards and protecting the rights of students to quality education. By targeting unauthorized schools, the government aims to deter illegal operations and encourage adherence to established regulations.

This operation not only seeks to eliminate substandard educational institutions but also to reinforce the message that the education of Cameroonian youth is a critical priority that demands professionalism and integrity.

As the new academic year approaches, the Ministry of Basic Education’s stringent measures reflect a broader strategy to elevate the national educational landscape, ensuring that all students receive the quality education they deserve.