Benin: Government Announces Surprise Inspections to End Illegal School Fees

In a note dated October 30, 2026, Benin’s Ministry of Secondary Education directed departmental officials to stop illegal fees being charged in public schools. They must prohibit collections beyond approved school fees, stop requirements to buy or wear badges, and conduct surprise inspections. The ministry says some students have been sent home for being unable to pay these unofficial charges and stresses that no student should be turned away for financial reasons without the administration being informed. The directives come as girls from sixth grade through the final year of secondary school are set to receive free schooling in public institutions from the 2026–27 school year.