According to andyeducation, the educational system in Burundi is composed of both formal and informal learning opportunities. Formal education is provided by the government and consists of pre-primary, primary, secondary, and tertiary level institutions. Pre-primary education is free for all citizens and lasts for three years. Primary school consists of six years of instruction with a curriculum that focuses on French language, mathematics, science, social studies and physical education. Secondary education consists of four years with the curriculum focusing on critical thinking, problem solving skills as well as a strong foundation in traditional academic subjects such as mathematics, science and language arts. Additionally, students are given the opportunity to learn about Burundi’s culture through lessons taught throughout the school system from kindergarten through high school. At the tertiary level there are a number of higher learning institutions including universities which offer degree programs in a wide range of disciplines including engineering, medicine and law. In order to increase access to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds or those living in rural areas there are several scholarship programs available to support students with their studies at universities or other tertiary institutions throughout Burundi. These include scholarships from both public institutions such as universities or private foundations such as those established by non-governmental organizations or corporations operating within Burundi. Additionally, there are student loan programs available which help students finance their studies without having to incur large amounts of debt upfront. In addition to providing educational opportunities for all citizens in Burundi there are also initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes including teacher training programs, school improvement initiatives, increased access to technology resources in classrooms across the country and increased funding for schools located in economically disadvantaged areas. The government has also implemented a number of policies aimed at improving literacy rates across all age groups including implementing adult literacy classes and investing heavily into early childhood development centers which provide essential care services such as nutrition counseling and health care for children between 0-5 years old. Overall, despite facing significant challenges due to poverty levels within the country Burundi is making strides towards ensuring that all citizens have access to quality education opportunities regardless of their socio-economic status or geographical location within the country. Through both formal and informal learning initiatives supported by government funded initiatives as well as private sector investment it is hoped that future generations will be able to benefit from improved educational outcomes leading them onto successful futures filled with potential opportunities they would otherwise not have had access too before now. See educationvv for Burundi educational systems.
