Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Djibouti
CapitalDjibouti
Population1.1 million
Area23,200 km² (8,958 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic, French
CurrencyDjiboutian franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAfrica / Eastern Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

The education system in Djibouti is a developing system that offers free and compulsory education to all citizens, with a focus on improving the literacy rate and providing access to quality education for all.

Quick Facts

Literacy Rate70%
School System6 years of compulsory education
Language of InstructionArabic and French
Academic CalendarSeptember to June
International Schoolslimited
Top University Rankingranked among the top 5 universities in the region

Education System Overview

The education system in Djibouti is structured into three main levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary education is compulsory for all children between the ages of 6 and 12, and is provided free of charge by the government. Secondary education is also free, but not compulsory, and is divided into two cycles: the first cycle lasts for 4 years, and the second cycle lasts for 3 years. Tertiary education is provided by universities and other institutions, and is not free. The quality of education in Djibouti varies, with public schools often struggling with limited resources and overcrowding, while private schools tend to offer better facilities and more qualified teachers.

The education system in Djibouti faces several challenges, including a shortage of qualified teachers, limited resources, and a lack of access to education in rural areas. Despite these challenges, the government has made efforts to improve the education system, including increasing funding for education and implementing new programs to improve teacher training and student outcomes. The public and private sectors both play a role in providing education in Djibouti, with public schools being the primary provider of education, and private schools catering to those who can afford to pay for a better quality education.

Overall, the education system in Djibouti has made significant progress in recent years, but still faces many challenges. The government's efforts to improve the education system have shown promise, and the country is working to increase access to quality education for all citizens. With continued investment and support, the education system in Djibouti has the potential to become a model for other countries in the region.

Top Universities

UniversityLocationKnown ForEst. Tuition (USD/year)
University of DjiboutiDjiboutiLaw, Medicine, and Business1,000
Institute of Sciences and TechnologyDjiboutiEngineering and Technology1,500
Djibouti Institute of Management and AdministrationDjiboutiBusiness and Administration2,000
Ecole Normale SupérieureDjiboutiTeacher Training500
Université Virtuelle de DjiboutiDjiboutiOnline Education800

International Schools

  • The International School of Djibouti offers an American-style curriculum to students from preschool to grade 12, with tuition fees ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 per year.
  • The Lycée Français de Djibouti offers a French-style curriculum to students from preschool to grade 12, with tuition fees ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per year.
  • The British International School of Djibouti offers a British-style curriculum to students from preschool to grade 12, with tuition fees ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 per year.
  • The Djibouti International School offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum to students from preschool to grade 12, with tuition fees ranging from $6,000 to $18,000 per year.
  • The Arab International School of Djibouti offers an Arabic-style curriculum to students from preschool to grade 12, with tuition fees ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 per year.

Studying as a Foreigner

  • To study in Djibouti, foreign students must obtain a student visa, which can be obtained through the Djiboutian embassy or consulate in their home country.
  • Foreign students must also demonstrate proficiency in French or Arabic, which are the official languages of instruction in Djibouti.
  • Scholarships are available to foreign students, including the Djiboutian government scholarship and the French government scholarship.
  • The cost of living in Djibouti is relatively high, with rent, food, and transportation costs ranging from $500 to $1,000 per month.
  • Foreign students can also take advantage of the country's cultural exchange programs, which allow them to experience the local culture and learn about the customs and traditions of Djibouti.
  • The language requirements for foreign students vary depending on the institution and the program of study, but most institutions require a minimum level of proficiency in French or Arabic.

Education Quality & Challenges

  • The education system in Djibouti faces several challenges, including a shortage of qualified teachers, limited resources, and a lack of access to education in rural areas.
  • Despite these challenges, the government has made efforts to improve the education system, including increasing funding for education and implementing new programs to improve teacher training and student outcomes.
  • The country has also made progress in increasing access to education, with the gross enrollment rate increasing from 40% in 2000 to over 70% in 2020.
  • The education system in Djibouti also faces challenges related to quality and relevance, with many students graduating without the skills and knowledge needed to compete in the global economy.
  • Recent reforms have focused on improving the quality and relevance of education, including the introduction of new curricula and teaching methods, and the development of vocational training programs.