The Malian government has temporarily lifted the suspension of subsidies to Catholic schools for the 2024-2025 school year. This decision was announced following a crucial meeting chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Choguel Kokalla Maïga on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, in Bamako.
The meeting, attended by key ministers and representatives of the Catholic Church, focused on the postponement of the suspension of state subsidies to Catholic schools. This move underscores the transitional government’s commitment to addressing the needs of the Malian people, as emphasized by Prime Minister Maïga, while highlighting the importance of balancing the interests of the majority to ensure progress.
The extension aims to provide Catholic school representatives with the opportunity to raise awareness among the Episcopal Conference, teachers, students, and parents about the current situation in the country. The Prime Minister called for close collaborations with relevant ministries to resolve outstanding issues definitively.
Initially, the government had planned to suspend the subsidy, which covers 80% of teachers’ salaries, starting January 2025. This subsidy is based on an agreement with the Catholic Church, signed in 1972 and revised in 1978.
