Digital technology is revolutionizing education, enhancing accessibility, interactivity, and preparing students for 21st-century challenges. Senegal recognizes this transformation and is strategically investing to position itself as a global leader in education.

Senegal’s Ministry of National Education and the Sonatel Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding Tuesday, March 11, to modernize the nation’s education system, focusing on digital integration and equitable access.

The memorandum of understanding aims to improve school infrastructure, promote digital education, and provide opportunities for equal access and excellence.

“This partnership is a unique opportunity for Sonatel to continue actively contributing to the country's development by leveraging its expertise and resources in the education sector,” said Sékou Dramé, chairman of the Sonatel Foundation Council, in a statement. “We firmly believe that education is the key to the future, which is why we are committed to working alongside the government to provide a better future for future generations.”

Key initiatives include the “Digital Schools” program, which will equip 120 elementary schools with modern technology and digital educational content, officials said. The program aims to strengthen students’ early access to digital learning, with a focus on information technology.

Additionally, 500 women will receive free training in digital marketing and project management at seven Digital Houses, facilitating their integration into the digital economy and enhancing youth employability, according to the foundation.

The partnership aligns with the Sonatel Foundation’s mission to promote excellence, equal opportunities, and inclusion, and reflects the Ministry of National Education’s vision to transform Senegal’s education system into a modern, technologically advanced learning environment.

Senegal is also developing a $206 million strategy to modernize educational infrastructure and integrate cutting-edge technologies, officials said.

The partnership echoes the government’s recently launched digital strategy, the “Technological New Deal,” which includes training 100,000 graduates in the digital sector and integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) into all educational cycles. The strategy promotes hands-on learning in disciplines such as robotics, coding, and artificial intelligence (AI).

By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji