HIGH COST OF BACK TO SCHOOL IN GABON

The rising prices of school supplies in Gabon have emerged as a pressing issue for parents, placing a significant financial burden on families and hindering their ability to afford essential educational materials for their children. This situation is especially dire for low-income households who are already grappling with financial difficulties.

A school in Gabon

In recent years, the cost of school supplies has seen a substantial increase. For instance, a 200-page notebook, once priced at 500 francs (80 cents), now commands a much higher cost. Ndoumba, a 38-year-old pharmacist, has expressed concern, stating that today, with 30,000 CFA francs (45 euros, $48), one can only purchase three or four notebooks. This issue is not unique to Gabon, as other African countries also confront the escalating prices of school supplies.

The escalating expenses associated with school supplies have become a primary source of anxiety for parents who are struggling to provide their children with the basic tools required for education. However, it's important to note that the cost of school supplies is just one facet of the financial challenges facing parents in Gabon. The country also contends with a high cost of living, encompassing restaurant prices, food, transportation, utilities, and housing costs, making it even more difficult for families to make ends meet, according to data from Numbeo.

In response to these challenges, the Gabonese government has taken certain measures to alleviate the financial burden on parents. This year, for example, the government introduced free school registration fees with the aim of reducing the financial strain on families. Nevertheless, these measures have not proven sufficient to combat the persistently high cost of school supplies, which remains a significant concern for many parents.

In an effort to address this issue, various organizations have taken the initiative to collect and donate school supplies to schools in Gabon and other African nations. Notable among these is Develop Africa, which accepts donations of new and gently used school supplies, such as books, pens, pencils, and other essential items. Additionally, the organization welcomes monetary contributions to assist in covering the shipping expenses associated with these donated materials.

In conclusion, the soaring prices of back-to-school items in Gabon pose a substantial challenge for parents as they strive to provide their children with the necessary tools for education. Low-income families, in particular, are grappling with these financial burdens. While the Gabonese government has taken steps to address the issue through measures like free school registration fees, more concerted efforts are needed to make education affordable for all. Organizations like Develop Africa are also playing a crucial role in this endeavor by collecting and donating school supplies to schools in Gabon and other African countries.