Silèye Gorbal Sy, president of the National Coalition for Education for All (Cnept) and coordinator of the African Coalition for Literacy, outlined urgent reforms for Senegal’s education system during an interview. Highlighting constraints on public finances, Sy stated that the state must position education and literacy as the primary engines of national transformation.
According to Sy, the first major reform requires strengthening governance within the educational framework through transparent resource management. The second priority focuses on the teaching workforce, demanding better initial and continuing training alongside improved remuneration to reduce student dropouts. Finally, Sy emphasized that integrating digital tools and pedagogical innovation is essential for modernizing schools to meet twenty-first-century demands.
Implementation of the April 2026 Social Dialogue Agreement
Months following the signing of an education sector protocol in April 2026, Sy reported mixed progress regarding social peace. The technical committee responsible for monitoring the agreement held its initial meeting under the supervision of the Minister of the Fonction publique, du Travail et du Renouveau du service public. While discussions have improved working conditions and established regular dialogue frameworks, delays in paying specific salary increases and allowances continue to create frustration among educators.
Did You Know? The technical committee tasked with monitoring the April 2026 education agreement held its very first meeting under the direct leadership of the Minister of the Fonction publique, du Travail et du Renouveau du service public.
Digital Integration and Literacy Expansion
To evaluate technological integration, Cnept recently conducted pilot training sessions focused on artificial intelligence and digital tools in Mont-Rolland. Sy noted a strong positive response from participants, though the project exposed challenges regarding equipment availability and internet connectivity. Expanding this initiative nationwide will require structured national strategies and localized pedagogical content.
Furthermore, as coordinator of the African Coalition for Literacy, Sy argued that Senegal can accelerate literacy rates by blending basic reading instruction with digital skills. Utilizing widespread mobile phone penetration and localized mobile applications can extend learning into poorly connected regions, transforming literacy into a driver of social inclusion.
Mobilizing the Diaspora for Educational Development
Sy called upon the Senegalese diaspora to contribute expertise and financial backing to underfunded sectors like adult literacy. Proposed initiatives include establishing a dedicated funding vehicle managed through transparent governance models and launching a digital platform allowing contributors to track specific projects. Additionally, structured mentorship and distance-learning programs would facilitate vital skills transfers from expatriate experts to local instructors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three most urgent educational reforms identified by Cnept?
The three priorities are strengthening administrative governance and resource transparency, enhancing teacher training and compensation, and integrating pedagogical innovation and digital tools.
What is the current status of the April 2026 social dialogue agreement?
While the monitoring committee has convened and working conditions have improved, delays in issuing specific salary increases and allowances continue to cause friction.
How does Cnept plan to tackle adult illiteracy nationwide?
The organization proposes leveraging mobile phone penetration, digital applications in national languages, and cross-ministerial coordination to deliver foundational literacy and digital skills.
How can local communities and international partners best support the modernization of Senegal’s educational infrastructure?