Parallel Systems, Unequal Outcomes: Decentralizing Education Governance in Cameroon

Authored By:

Tunde Agboke

,

May 30, 2025

Cameroon’s education system stands at a critical inflection point. Deep structural inequities—rooted in linguistic divides, centralized governance, and fiscal rigidity—have compounded the challenges faced by students, especially in Anglophone and conflict-affected regions. While national education policy emphasizes unity and development, the realities on the ground tell a different story: one of uneven access, fragmented identity, and systemic under-resourcing. This policy brief outlines four key governance and equity challenges within Cameroon’s education system and provides actionable, context-responsive recommendations. We argue that reforms in decentralization, bilingual curriculum governance, and fiscal autonomy are not only necessary but achievable.

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