Guinea-Bissau students demand teacher oversight
Student confederation also protests government ban on graduation parties, citing economic hardship.
The Confederation of Associations of Students of Public and Private Schools of Guinea-Bissau (CAAEPP-GB) asked the transitional government to strengthen oversight of contracted teachers on Friday, November 6, 2026. The students' organization alleges that many teachers abandon public schools to prioritize work in private institutions.
Alfa Umaro Só, president of CAAEPP-GB, stated during a press conference that the lack of attendance by some contracted teachers disrupts classes and compromises the quality of education in public schools. He also criticized the government's decision to prohibit graduation parties for final-year students, arguing the measure lacks economic justification.
Só defended that 12th-year students wish to hold their ceremonies at their schools, describing them as voluntary initiatives organized by the students themselves. The student leader accused the Association of Parents and Guardians of influencing the Council of Ministers' decision to ban these celebrations.
Why it mattersStudents in Guinea-Bissau are directly affected by the quality of teaching in public schools and the ability to celebrate their academic achievements.