Educational System in Senegal

Senegal, a West African country, has a diverse and evolving educational system. The system is based on the French model, but it has been adapted to the local context. The government of Senegal has made significant efforts to improve the quality of education and increase access to education for all children. However, the system still faces challenges, including a high dropout rate, gender disparities, and a lack of resources. This guide provides an overview of the educational system in Senegal, including the main stages of education, enrollment procedures for newcomers, language requirements, and options for bilingual, private, and online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Senegal?

The educational system in Senegal is divided into four main stages: pre-school (école maternelle), primary school (école élémentaire), secondary school (collège and lycée), and higher education (université). Pre-school is optional and caters to children aged 3 to 6. Primary school is compulsory and covers ages 6 to 12. Secondary school is divided into two stages: lower secondary (collège) for ages 12 to 16, and upper secondary (lycée) for ages 16 to 19. Higher education includes universities and other tertiary institutions.

Pre-school Education

Pre-school education in Senegal is optional and caters to children aged 3 to 6. It focuses on the child's overall development and prepares them for primary school. The curriculum includes activities that promote cognitive, emotional, and social development. The language of instruction is usually French, but some schools also use local languages.

Primary School Education

Primary school education in Senegal is compulsory and covers ages 6 to 12. The curriculum includes subjects like French, mathematics, science, history, geography, and physical education. The aim of primary education is to provide students with basic literacy and numeracy skills and to instill in them the values of citizenship and social responsibility.

Secondary School Education

Secondary school education in Senegal is divided into two stages: lower secondary (collège) for ages 12 to 16, and upper secondary (lycée) for ages 16 to 19. The curriculum in collège includes French, mathematics, science, history, geography, and foreign languages. In lycée, students choose a specialization in either sciences, humanities, or technical/vocational studies. The baccalaureate exam at the end of lycée determines university admission.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

Newcomers can enroll their children in school by contacting the local education authority or the school directly. They will need to provide documents such as the child's birth certificate, passport, previous school records, and immunization records. Some schools may also require an entrance exam or an interview.

My children are still learning French, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning French can enroll in public schools in Senegal. However, they may face challenges as the language of instruction in most schools is French. Some schools offer French as a Second Language (FSL) programs to help non-French speaking students.

Are there public bilingual schools?

Yes, there are public bilingual schools in Senegal. These schools offer instruction in both French and English, and they aim to produce graduates who are proficient in both languages. Admission to these schools is usually competitive and may require an entrance exam.

What types of private schools are common in Senegal?

Private schools in Senegal include international schools, bilingual schools, and religious schools. International schools follow international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), and they cater mainly to expatriate families. Bilingual schools offer instruction in both French and English. Religious schools, mainly Islamic and Catholic, combine secular education with religious instruction.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Expats in Senegal typically send their children to private schools, especially international and bilingual schools. These schools offer a familiar curriculum and language of instruction, and they provide a more comfortable transition for expat children.

How expensive are Private schools in Senegal?

Private schools in Senegal can be quite expensive, with tuition fees ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year. The cost depends on the type of school, the level of education, and the services provided by the school.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Senegal?

Homeschooling is not common in Senegal and there are no specific laws regulating it. However, it is generally accepted if the parents can provide a suitable curriculum and learning environment for their children.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Senegal?

Yes, children living in Senegal can attend online schools. This option is particularly popular among expat families who want to continue with their home country's curriculum. However, it's important to ensure that the online school is accredited and that it provides a comprehensive and quality education.