Concerns Arise Over New 1:25 Teacher-Student Ratio 

As Mauritius gears up to introduce free pre-primary education from January 2024 through the Grant-In-Aid scheme, apprehensions persist within the education sector regarding the practicality of the stipulated student-teacher ratio.

Under the new policy, eligible pre-primary schools must adhere to a manager-to-school ratio, one teacher per 25 students, an assistant teacher per 50 students, and a school attendant per 50 children.

While the initiative aims to provide affordable education, educators are voicing concerns about its feasibility given the diverse needs of modern students.

The scheme, presented by the Minister of Education, Leela Devi Dookhun-Luchoomun, requires eligible schools to fulfil criteria such as ECCEA registration and enrolling a minimum of 10 children. Schools with varying enrolment numbers will receive financial assistance, ranging from Rs 240,000 to Rs 650,000 annually.

The policy also addresses staff salaries and operational expenses, with salary adjustments aligned with PRB recommendations.

However, Rishi Nursimulu, founder of Dukesbridge, a group of 10 pre-primary schools, has insisted on the importance of maintaining educational quality alongside affordability.

He expressed concerns about potential drops in standards and increased tuition fees for private schools due to the removal of subsidies.

He hopes the government will reconsider to ensure both quality and equity in education.

Source: Le Mauricien