Financing for equity in pre-primary education
1. Education resources to subnational governments
2. Education resources to institutions
3. Education resources to students and families
4. Social policies and family support programmes
Introduction
Key financing indicators (UIS Data)
In Togo, the official entry age for pre-primary education is 3 years old. While the national legal framework does not specify any number of years of free or compulsory pre-primary education.
Based on UIS data, the net enrolment rate for pre-primary education increased from 2.05% in 2000 to 27.63% in 2024. However, official statistics published by the Government of Togo report a higher preschool enrolment rate of 46.23% in 2024.
Governance
The financing of pre-primary education is primarily the responsibility of the Ministry of National Education, under which the Direction des Enseignements Préscolaire et Primaire (DEPP) operates. The DEPP is the central body tasked with managing and coordinating both preschool and primary education, including budget allocation, oversight of public spending, and supervision of educational programs. Within the DEPP, a dedicated division for pre-primary education is being established to strengthen institutional oversight, improve management capacity, and ensure equitable distribution of resources across public pre-primary institutions. Additionally, the ministry collaborates with local authorities, community organisations, and technical and financial partners, including international NGOs, to support the development and financing of both public and community-based pre-primary programs.
Tuition-free status
The government abolished tuition fees for all public preschools in 2008, expanding access and increasing enrolment.
1. Education resources to subnational governments
Public financing for pre-primary is integrated within the broader basic education budget managed by the Ministry of National Education. There is no formal mechanism for transferring earmarked funds from the central government to municipalities.
2. Education resources to institutions
According to the Politique Nationale de Développement de la Petite Enfance (PNDPE), the government prioritises a coherent allocation of public resources across regions and early childhood care structures, with emphasis on rural and disadvantaged areas. The Education Sector Plan 2020–2030 mandates the construction of two pre-primary classrooms (Jardins d’Enfants Publics, JEP) in all new and existing primary schools lacking preschool facilities. The plan also supports improvements in teaching and learning environments, including appropriate classroom layouts, furniture, and equipment for children aged four to five, with particular attention to children with disabilities and special educational needs. Resources are also allocated for the reproduction and distribution of teaching and learning materials, such as activity books, mathematics and graphics resources, and play kits. Teacher training in the use of these materials is required to promote inclusive and effective learning practices.
3. Education resources to students and families
No targeted subsidies or direct financial aid for parents of pre-primary children have been identified. However, the government abolished tuition fees for all public preschools in 2008, expanding access and increasing enrolment. Parents remain responsible for additional costs, including uniforms, voluntary contributions, and transportation.
4. Social policies and family support programmes
From the 2024/2025 school year, pre-school children enrolled in public kindergartens are included in the national universal health insurance system (AMU) through the School Assur programme. This ensures free access to essential medical services, accident and illness coverage, and preventative health care, thereby reducing health-related barriers for disadvantaged families.
The Family Allowance programme (Allocation familiale), administered by the Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Administrative Reform, provides monthly payments of 2,000 CFA francs per eligible child under 16 years old (or up to 21 for students and children with disabilities), covering up to four children per household. Pregnant women completing prescribed medical examinations are eligible for prenatal allowances, paid in three instalments, to support maternal and child health.
This profile was reviewed by Kossi Edem YOVOGA, Education Researcher.
