Burkina Faso Abolishes School Fees, Guarantees Free Education from Primary to University
In a groundbreaking move, President Ibrahim Traoré has declared education free for all students in Burkina Faso, covering every level from primary school through university. The bold announcement, made during a national address, eliminates all tuition, enrollment, exam, and facility fees across public institutions.
This historic policy is set to benefit millions of students, particularly in rural and underserved communities, by removing financial barriers and promoting equal access to learning. With more children expected to stay in school, the country anticipates major boosts in literacy, workforce skills, and long-term economic development.
The funding will be drawn from a mix of budget reallocations, international aid, and revenues from Burkina Faso’s mining and agriculture sectors. Implementation frameworks are currently being designed to ensure a smooth rollout across schools.
Though some critics have flagged concerns over sustainability and infrastructure, education experts are hailing the move as a model for the continent. The initiative also prioritizes reducing inequality, especially for girls and marginalized groups, and is backed by a government promise of continued investment in curriculum reform, school expansion, and digital access.
