Human Rights Watch (HRW) has released a report detailing significant educational deficiencies in Mayotte, a French overseas territory located in the Indian Ocean. The report, titled “Exceptional Failure: France’s Persistent Education Shortcomings in Mayotte,” highlights how the territory struggles to provide adequate education for all children.
The 73-page document reveals that local municipalities in Mayotte impose considerable barriers to school enrollment. Those fortunate enough to secure a spot in school face overcrowded classrooms that lack basic necessities, including access to drinking water, sanitation, nutritious food, and a safe learning environment. HRW’s research included interviews with over 40 individuals, encompassing children, parents, government officials, and teachers.
According to HRW, the French government has largely neglected Mayotte, which has experienced chronic shortages of classrooms and teachers for years. The situation worsened following a cyclone in 2024 that caused extensive destruction to homes, schools, and essential infrastructure. This has resulted in many schools operating on an alternating schedule, meaning that most children attend classes for only part of the day.
Despite French law mandating free education for children aged 3 to 16, a separate study conducted by the University of Paris Nanterre in 2023 found that nearly 9 percent of children in Mayotte are not enrolled in school. Elvire Fondacci, the French advocacy officer at HRW, expressed profound concern regarding the current state of education on the island.
“It is shocking that thousands of children in Mayotte are denied access to school, while those who do attend face substandard learning conditions,” Fondacci stated. “All children in Mayotte should be able to experience their right to education on an equal footing with children elsewhere in France.”
In response to the educational crisis, organizations such as Libraries Without Borders are working to improve conditions. The group has collaborated with the French Red Cross to introduce a mobile media library to the island, which is now benefiting hundreds of young people and refugees. Additionally, they have utilized “ideas boxes” to gather input on potential solutions to educational emergencies and learning needs.
The importance of education in Mayotte is underscored by the territory’s high unemployment rate among youth, which stands at 43 percent for individuals aged 15 to 29. Recognizing the crucial role of education in fostering economic and social stability, the Foundation of France has also stepped in to support educational initiatives. Following the devastation caused by the 2024 cyclone, the foundation successfully raised €43.6 million in donations to assist the island. Of this amount, €15.1 million has already been allocated to support over 200 initiatives across Mayotte, with 73 initiatives specifically targeting education and youth development.
As one of France’s 13 overseas territories, Mayotte is recognized as the country’s poorest area, with more than 75 percent of its population living below the poverty line. The ongoing educational challenges faced by children on this island highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms and increased investment in the local education system to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive.
