(Ecofin Agency) - In Senegal, the education system is grappling with numerous challenges that hinder the country's ability to produce the human resources necessary for its development. Recognizing this, the new authorities are considering a comprehensive reform.

President Diomaye Faye has instructed the government to conduct an evaluation of the education system. He made this directive during a Cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday, June 5.

According to a statement issued after the meeting, the president's recommendation aims to address current educational challenges. "The programs do not align with national realities, digital imperatives, and the needs of the national economy. Additionally, issues such as school dropout rates, lack of infrastructure, and teacher shortages amidst growing student enrollments are pressing," the statement noted.

Among the priorities highlighted by Diomaye Faye is the training of educators. This includes strengthening faculties and educational programs in pedagogy, as well as enhancing national teacher training schools. The president also emphasized the importance of promoting the teaching of national languages, expanding English education from elementary levels, and integrating traditional Quranic schools ("Daaras") into the educational system continuously and practically.

In line with these initiatives, the head of state instructed the Prime Minister to focus on digitizing the education system, planning teacher recruitments over the next five years, and implementing a coordinated program to build suitable school infrastructures and enhance the educational environment across all regions of the country.

As part of urgent recommendations, the president called for regulating the establishment, opening, and operational oversight of private schools.

These immediate measures, to be implemented promptly, reflect the new Senegalese government's commitment to systemic transformation. They aim to rejuvenate and strategically reposition schools to align with the values and aspirations of Senegalese society.