School reopening costs strain households in Chad and Senegal

Families in Chad and Senegal are facing significant financial strain as the new school year approaches. In Chad, households are struggling to balance the costs of school registration, uniforms, and supplies with essential daily expenses such as food, housing, and healthcare. Many parents are forced to make difficult decisions, such as purchasing second-hand supplies or reducing other household expenditures to ensure their children can attend school.

In Senegal, the upcoming 2026-2027 school year is set to begin on October 7, adding pressure to households already impacted by rising consumer prices. Data from the National Agency of Statistics and Demography (ANSD) indicates that consumer prices rose by 1.2% over the past year, with food and non-alcoholic beverage prices increasing by 1.4%. Monthly data shows a sharper rise, including a 3.9% increase in food products.

In response, the Senegalese government has prioritized the school reopening. Education Minister Moustapha Mamba Guirassy has identified teacher availability, school functionality, and pedagogical material as urgent priorities. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has also called for increased dialogue with educational stakeholders and the acceleration of infrastructure rehabilitation.