Côte d’Ivoire’s Education Crisis Deepens as Teachers Strike: Journalist Calls for National Responsibility
Côte d’Ivoire’s ongoing teachers’ strike has entered a critical phase, drawing national attention to deep-seated issues within the country’s education system. In a bold editorial, renowned journalist François M’BRA II, a 2014 U.S. IVLP alumnus, has called on the Ivorian government to assume full responsibility and act decisively to end the crisis.
The strike, sparked by demands for improved working conditions and incentive bonuses, has received widespread support among teachers across the country. Public schools remain largely paralyzed, with growing concerns from parents and education stakeholders about the long-term impact on students.
Education Minister Prof. Mariatou Koné and Public Service Minister Anne-Désirée Ouloto are under mounting criticism for their perceived lack of effective action. François M’BRA II stressed that “teachers, trained and educated by the state, will not be fooled by political maneuvers.” He emphasized that the demands are legitimate, and that labeling the strike as illegal only worsens the standoff.
M’BRA II issued a direct appeal to President Alassane Ouattara, urging him to move beyond reports suggesting normalcy and instead face the situation head-on. “The ball is in your court,” he wrote. “You have the solution to the teachers’ problem; act now.”
He called for an end to “dilatory strategies” and for genuine reforms and dialogue, insisting that public institutions are not functioning properly and students are migrating to private schools, a sign of eroding trust in the public education system.
The editorial emphasized that governance demands “transparency and courage” and condemned the use of advisory committees as tools to deflect problems. M’BRA II highlighted the need for a collaborative and transparent approach between government and unions to rebuild a robust and equitable education system.
The crisis took a disturbing turn with the reported arrest of teacher and activist Dugarry Assi, who is allegedly being held in inhumane conditions. His detention has sparked outrage among educators and human rights advocates, further fueling tensions within the sector. Teachers’ unions and civil society groups are demanding his immediate release, calling his treatment a violation of basic human rights.
“This strike is not just about teachers—it’s about the future of our children,” M’BRA II warned, stressing that political interests must not override the nation’s educational priorities.
As pressure mounts, stakeholders across the country are calling for constructive dialogue and immediate intervention to restore order in schools. Civil society organizations, parent associations, and education experts echo the call for a dignified and sustainable resolution.
With students’ futures hanging in the balance, the message is clear: it is time to act—together, responsibly, and without delay.
