The Senegalese school system is taking a significant step towards environmental sustainability with the launch of the Réseau des Écoles Durables du Sénégal (REDS), or Network of Sustainable Schools of Senegal. Officially launched on September 24, 2025, in Toubacouta, the REDS aims to integrate sustainable development into schools and raise environmental awareness among students.
A Collaborative Approach to Education
The REDS operates on a participatory model, fostering collaboration between member schools through technical support, training and shared experiences. A nationally-focused executive committee, elected by its members, ensures consistent action and implementation across Senegal.
Member schools gain access to valuable resources, including exchange visits to observe successful initiatives, training sessions on topics like waste management, water conservation, and agroforestry, and a structured framework for developing their own environmental projects.
A Phased and Structured Process
Schools join the REDS through a multi-stage process. It begins with the formation of a Sustainable School Committee, comprised of students, teachers, parents, and local community members. This committee then conducts a comprehensive assessment of the school’s practices related to water management, hygiene, waste disposal, the environment, and teaching methods.
Based on this assessment, the school develops a sustainable development plan before submitting its application to the network.
Labels to Recognize Commitment
The REDS utilizes a labeling system to acknowledge and promote the efforts of participating schools. These labels recognize achievements in areas such as waste management and hygiene (“École propre”), tree planting and composting (“École verte”), community involvement in reforestation (“École en village forêt”), healthy eating education (“École en nutrition saine”), and responsible citizenship (“Éco-citoyenneté durable”).
These labels enhance a school’s visibility, credibility, and access to potential funding opportunities.
Schools at the Heart of Ecological Transition
The REDS is driven by the broader vision of the association Nébéday, which seeks to connect education, the environment, and local development. By engaging students, teachers, and communities, the network aims to embed sustainable practices within territories and raise awareness of ecological issues.
This initiative positions schools as key players in Senegal’s environmental transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the REDS?
The primary goal of the REDS is to integrate sustainable development into schools in Senegal and to raise awareness among students about environmental issues.
How do schools develop into members of the REDS?
Schools become members by forming a Sustainable School Committee, conducting an assessment of their current practices, developing a sustainable development plan, and submitting an application to the network.
What types of labels are awarded by the REDS?
The REDS awards labels for “École propre” (clean school), “École verte” (green school), “École en village forêt” (school in forest village), “École en nutrition saine” (school in healthy nutrition), and “Éco-citoyenneté durable” (sustainable eco-citizenship).
As the REDS network grows, will it be able to maintain the quality and consistency of its programs across Senegal?
