Students Return to School for the 2025/2026 Academic Year

Bangui, September 27, 2025 – Across the Central African Republic (CAR), schools officially reopened their doors, marking the start of the 2025/2026 academic year. In some schools, particularly in the capital Bangui, administrators chose to delay the effective return by a few days to better prepare classrooms and staff for the challenges ahead. Africa24 was in Bangui taking a look into the classrooms.

At the Mandaba school of Bangui for example, students only resumed classes on September 22. The decision, according to school leadership, was taken strategically to refine internal organization and ensure smooth teaching from preschool through to high school. “We wanted to begin today to better organize the reception and follow-up of our students, from kindergarten to high school. Our objective is for them to succeed like previous generations, and a structured start lays a strong foundation,” explained Séverin Nguerebanda, English teacher at the school.

Determination Despite Challenges

The return to school takes place in a context marked by economic constraints, logistical hurdles, and limited infrastructure. Yet teachers, students, and parents alike are demonstrating determination and resilience despite rising costs for school supplies and ongoing access difficulties to certain facilities.

“This new school year will be a success. Last year we were distracted, but this year we decided to focus on our studies, especially as exams are approaching,” said Sibelle Dangbaoko, a high school student in Première D.

A Year of Hope and Discipline

The reopening of schools also ties directly into the government’s National Development Plan 2024–2028, which identifies education and human capital development as central areas for national progress. The plan aims to expand access, improve quality, and reduce inequalities in the education system, recognizing that a resilient and skilled young generation is essential for the CAR’s recovery and long-term growth.

As part of the development plan, initiatives will be launched to develop local infrastructure and schools with an additional focus on teacher recruitment and training programs for staff. To improve the education quality at basic levels, curricula will be revised. One major objective is to increase the national literacy rate from around 50% to 100% as well as increasing the school completion rate, particularly among girls.

In this context this year’s school opening is more than a symbolic moment and is seen as a sign of hope: it reflects the determination of students, parents, and educators to continue investing in the future, despite the obstacles. The classrooms of CAR, filled with energy and aspiration, remain a cornerstone of the nation’s path to recovery and growth.

Watch the full report by Africa24 here.