Free Pre-Primary Education Scheme Extended Until 2026

The Free Pre-Primary Education Scheme will remain fully operational until 31 December 2026, the government confirmed on November 7, scrapping an imminent review that would have imposed new costs on parents.

Education Minister Mahend Gungapersad assured the public that the current “Granting Aid” formula would be maintained, telling stakeholders:

“We wish to reassure parents, the public, and all early childhood actors that nothing will change in the formula of the Granting Aid until 31 December 2026.”

He made the announcement alongside colleagues from the Interministerial Committee.

Parental Costs Averted

The extension reverses a previously discussed plan to revise the scheme from January 2026.

Under the proposed new model, private pre-primary schools were to receive a fixed monthly allowance of Rs 2,750 per child.

This fixed grant would have replaced the current system, which involves the government reimbursing schools for their operational costs.

Crucially, any shortfall under the new grant system would have had to be paid for by parents.

Democratising Early Childhood Access

The scheme, in its existing form, is a widely praised measure that currently allows many families to access free pre-primary education.

It has been lauded for its crucial role in democratising access to early childhood education.

Source: Defi Media