"piece of paper": the key to university education in Guinea

This book examines the perceptions of university and university degrees among Guinean high school seniors in both private and public schools. The research methodology is qualitative, based on individual interviews. The study shows that academic and extracurricular experiences vary greatly depending on the type of high school attended. While the academic journey in private schools has proceeded relatively smoothly, it is significantly more chaotic among public school students. Similarly, depending on the type of school, extracurricular activities differ markedly. However, for both categories, college is viewed as a logical continuation of the educational path. It attracts and exerts a form of "fascination," particularly for the "piece of paper" it grants. The college degree becomes a distinguishing mark and a symbol of prestige and, especially in working-class circles, a guarantee of employability. Finally, for girls in private high school, continuing their education is presented as a means of gaining a certain degree of independence, even if, as with their public school counterparts, pursuing higher education must "coexist" with plans for marriage.