Mali’s education disrupted as 2,400+ schools remain shut amid rising violence
Mali's 2026-2027 academic year, declared the 'Year of Education and Culture,' began with more than 2,400 schools closed due to escalating violence and jihadist presence. The closures affect communities already disrupted by conflict, limiting children's access to education despite government efforts.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1)
Mali’s new school year for 2026-2027 began on Thursday with over 2,400 schools unable to reopen as worsening insecurity and the growing presence of jihadist groups continue to disrupt education, according to Mali’s Education Ministry.
The academic year has been declared the “Year of Education and Culture” by President Assimi Goïta, yet thousands of children start the year without access to classrooms. The number of closed schools has risen in recent years as violence spreads across parts of the country.
These closures affect communities already facing displacement and disruption from ongoing conflict, leaving children with fewer opportunities to continue their education. While the government prioritizes education, the security situation remains a major obstacle to reopening schools in affected areas.
The challenge for Mali is not only to get children back into classrooms but also to ensure schools can remain open and safe despite continuing insecurity.