The 2026-2027 school year began on Thursday in Mali, but over 2,400 schools are unable to reopen due to worsening insecurity. The closure affects multiple regions across Mali, stemming from an increased presence of jihadist groups. Despite these challenges, President Assimi Goïta declared the academic year the “Year of Education and Culture.” This declaration appears to be an attempt to prioritize education amidst escalating violence. The ongoing instability is severely disrupting access to education for many children in Mali. The situation highlights the complex interplay between security and educational development in the country. The news was originally reported by O País - A verdade como notícia.