Togo’s student health insurance program, SCHOOL AMU, has made notable strides in providing financial protection to students across the country by raising CFA356 million (€540,000) as at January 2025 to safeguard the health and academic futures of students nationwide. Launched to address systemic gaps in healthcare affordability, the program is transforming how families manage medical costs while advancing the government’s vision of equitable access to care.
Togo’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, including insufficient staff, outdated medical instruments, and ineffective financial resources, resulting in a “pay or die” approach for many patients However, the Ministry of Health and Education has launched SCHOOL AMU to actively reduce financial barriers to healthcare for students, ensuring they have access to necessary medical care without incurring significant personal expenses. This initiative directly addresses the issue of high healthcare expenditures, providing students with financial protection and support.
In a country where 60% of households live below the poverty line, even minor health crises can force families to choose between treatment and basic needs.
“Before SCHOOL AMU, a child’s illness often meant dropping out of school to save money. Now, students stay healthier, attend class regularly and perform better academically.” Dr. Koffi Adjahoui, a pediatrician in Lomé said.
The initiative tackles systemic inequities by partnering with mobile clinics to extend SCHOOL AMU’s reach to remote rural areas lacking permanent healthcare facilities, while also integrating mental health support through pilot counseling services launched in 15 schools to address rising anxiety and depression rates among teenagers.
The Togolese government has hailed the program’s early success as a stepping stone toward universal health coverage. “SCHOOL AMU isn’t just an insurance it is an investment in our nation’s future, Healthy students today mean a productive workforce tomorrow.” stated Health Minister Prof. Moustafa Mijiyawa.
While progress is notable, hurdles remain. Critics highlight delays in claim reimbursements and uneven awareness campaigns in rural regions. The Health Ministry acknowledges these gaps and plans to digitize payment systems and collaborate with community leaders to boost enrollment.
As SCHOOL AMU gains momentum, neighboring countries like Benin and Burkina Faso have expressed interest in replicating its hybrid funding model blending government subsidies, modest student premiums and international aid. For Togo, the program underscores a broader lesson: prioritizing youth health isn’t just ethical, it’s economically transformative.
Source: Togolese Ministry of Health.
