Algeria Overhauls Primary Education, Replacing French with English

Algeria's Minister of National Education, Mohamed Oujja Saadaoui, announced on Saturday new educational measures for the 2026-2027 school year, including the cancellation of French language teaching and the introduction of English language instruction in the third year of primary school. Speaking during the opening of the national conference to prepare for the upcoming academic year, Saadaoui stated that some educational subjects will also be reorganized. He added, "The process is nearing its end with the public service, and we will announce the results soon." The minister's statements, made on Saturday, outlined a significant shift in the country's primary education curriculum. Specifically, French language teaching will be cancelled in the third year of primary school, making way for English language instruction at this key developmental stage.

Curriculum Changes Detailed

English language instruction will be the sole foreign language taught in the third year of primary school. This marks a key change in Algeria's educational policy. Both English and French will be introduced concurrently starting from the fourth year of primary school, ensuring students gain proficiency in both languages as they progress through their primary education. These changes are part of a broader initiative to revise educational programs and strengthen English language teaching across the curriculum, reflecting a strategic move to adapt to global educational trends and enhance students' linguistic capabilities.

The Algerian Ministry of National Education has also decided to readjust and reorganize some educational subjects at several academic levels. As part of this reorganization, more class time will be allocated to practical work, particularly in the final years of schooling. This emphasis on practical application aims to better prepare students for future academic and professional challenges. Further details regarding the specific subjects affected by these changes and the implementation timeline are expected to be outlined in an official circular, which the ministry plans to release within the next two days. This upcoming circular will provide full guidance on the new curriculum structure and its phased introduction.

Teacher Recruitment Update

The results of the 2025 teacher recruitment competition are expected to be announced soon, following the nearing completion of the process. The Algerian Ministry of National Education is currently reviewing candidate files, totaling 1,065,000, in coordination with public service departments. Officials stated the process is in its final phase, indicating that the selection of new educators is imminent. These developments come as the education sector is closing a chapter marked by many achievements, according to ministry statements. The impending announcement will finalize the recruitment efforts for the upcoming academic year, ensuring adequate staffing for the reformed educational system. The 2025 teacher recruitment competition is specifically in its final stages, showing the government's commitment to bolstering the teaching workforce.

Broader Educational Vision

The announced measures are intended to continue reforming Algeria's educational system, aiming to improve schooling conditions and enhance academic achievement. These reforms are being implemented in line with the vision of President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Officials indicated that the budget allocated to the education sector has significantly impacted the realization of various programs and reforms, providing the necessary financial backing for these ambitious changes. Improving the professional and social conditions of employees within the sector has also been identified as one of the top priorities for the upcoming phase of educational development, recognizing the vital role educators play in the success of these reforms. These full changes reflect a strategic national effort to modernize the educational landscape and prepare Algerian students for a competitive global environment.