Guinean school director says paid tutoring is indispensable

Mohamed Mara, director of the Excellence Moussa Traoré school in N’Zérékoré, stated that paid tutoring is indispensable for students' academic success. He explained that while school provides the foundation, parents must arrange for private tutors to help students excel. Mara noted that different students learn at different paces, and some require repeated explanations to understand lessons taught in class.

Mara acknowledged that some parents hesitate due to the costs associated with tutoring, but he believes the benefits outweigh the expenses. He mentioned that some teachers offer affordable rates, though not all parents recognize the value of these supplementary lessons. The school director also highlighted that his institution offers free tutoring, but attendance is a challenge, with some students citing household chores as a reason for absence.

The director emphasized that student success relies on a collective effort from teachers, parents, and school administrators. He pointed out that even with free support sessions at his school, a lack of consistent student participation hinders their effectiveness. Some students' parents are called in, but the same excuses for absence are often repeated.

Why it mattersParents in Guinea are paying for extra lessons to help their children succeed in school.

Sources