Haiti - Education : Declaration on the Refounding of the Haitian Education System
Following three days of intense debates and in-depth discussions (January 21-23, 2026), Augustin Antoine, the Minister of National Education, officially closed the National Conference on the Refounding of the Haitian Education System on the afternoon of Friday, January 23.
A Declaration comprising 28 articles, proposing solutions to the various problems identified in the sector, was adopted at the conclusion of this conference. Delegates from diverse sectors of national life, as well as representatives of international cooperation, teachers, school principals, inspectors, academics, parents, students, unions, representatives of local authorities, the diaspora, and technical and financial partners, among others, came together to take a courageous and necessary step : to examine the Haitian education system without complacency, but with clarity and hope.
According to Minister Antoine, one cannot discuss education in Haiti today without acknowledging the gravity of the context in which it operates. He mentioned, among other things, the profound socio-economic crisis, the massive population displacements, the prolonged closure of schools, the precarious situation of teachers, and the deprivation of children's fundamental right to education.
He stated that he recognized that in some areas, attending school has become an act of bravery, while in others, teaching is an act of resistance. He added, "Despite the fear and uncertainty, the Haitian school system still stands thanks to the quiet courage of thousands of teachers, the determination of parents, and the pursuit of a better future by young people."
"Rebuilding the Haitian school system will not be easy or quick. The process unfolds on a timeline that is both fluid and dynamic. It requires time, consistency, resources, but above all, political will and collective responsibility." “I particularly commend the sovereign act you have taken by signing the Declaration for the Refounding of the Haitian Education System," the Minister concluded, while expressing his hope that these proceedings would serve as a historic landmark for the Nation.
