Education Shift Sees English Lead in Primary Grade

Algeria has confirmed a major shift in its national education policy, prioritizing English over French as the first foreign language taught in primary schools. Education Minister Mohamed Seghir Saadaoui announced on July 25 that for the academic year 2026-2027, English will be the sole foreign language introduced in the third year of primary education. This means eight-year-olds across the country will begin learning English before French, which will now be introduced in the fourth year, ending its long-standing primacy in foreign language classes within Algerian schools.

This educational reform is a core component of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s comprehensive linguistic overhaul for Algeria, a policy first outlined in 2022. The initiative extends beyond primary education, with medicine and science faculties beginning to transition from French to English instruction. Reflecting this broader strategic direction, French has also been removed from certain utility bills and Air Algérie tickets, while road signs increasingly feature English alongside Arabic, and government ministries' websites are incorporating English as an option. The shift underscores a structural move towards linguistic diversification.

The policy has garnered positive responses from various sectors. Retired English teacher Ahmed Krim described the decision as "very good," emphasizing its potential if supported by planning and resources. Similarly, Rafik Laceb, an English lecturer, expressed cautious optimism for the primary school reform, deeming the decision positive. Public enthusiasm is also evident, with booksellers reporting increased sales of English-language books, particularly among young female readers, suggesting an organic societal embrace of the language.

While some observers have noted potential challenges related to teacher availability, a source familiar with the matter stated there are sufficient teachers for the primary school rollout, with any shortages addressable through contractors. The education ministry reportedly recruited approximately 15,000 English teachers for primary schools in February. The government’s reforms aim to provide more children with the opportunity for multilingual education from an earlier stage, addressing disparities in learning opportunities, and align with Algeria's commitment to asserting its linguistic sovereignty and national identity. This implementation signifies a determined step in providing Algerian youth with broader international opportunities through enhanced English language proficiency.