The 18th edition of the Dakar International Book and Educational Materials Fair (FILDAK) will take place from October 15 to 19 at the Grand Théâtre national Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose in Dakar. The event, announced by Minister of Culture, Creative Industries, and Historical Heritage Mame Coumba Diop, will focus on educational materials and digital tools. This year's theme is "Bibliothèque, transmission et souveraineté" (Library, Transmission, and Sovereignty), with Egypt as the guest of honor.
Minister Diop emphasized that digital educational tools are not a replacement for books, but rather an extension of them. She cited examples such as tablets, local language applications, virtual libraries, and artificial intelligence. According to Diop, these tools can bridge the gap in access to education, particularly for children in remote areas. The minister also highlighted the benefits of digital tools in reducing costs and increasing accessibility.
Nine countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Tunisia, Mauritania, Mali, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, and Gambia, have confirmed their participation in the event. The fair will feature a range of educational materials, from textbooks to laboratory equipment and inclusive tools for students with special needs. Minister Diop stressed that the event aims to promote a love of reading and support the development of creative industries.
Professor Ibrahima Wane, speaking on behalf of the FILDAK scientific committee, listed several innovations for this edition. The event will be held at a new venue, and its timing coincides with the 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Dakar. Wane noted that this presents an opportunity to highlight books and stories about sports and athletic performance.
Ibrahima Lô, Director of Books and Promotion of Reading, emphasized the importance of developing public policies for books and education. He noted that each Senegalese government has prioritized this issue, investing in infrastructure to promote reading and literature. Lô's comments underscored the significance of FILDAK in promoting education and cultural development.
The FILDAK has been on hold for several years, and its return is seen as a significant event for Senegal's cultural and educational sectors. Minister Diop described the fair as a signal of the government's commitment to revitalizing creative industries and making reading accessible to all. The event aims to promote professionalism and transmission of knowledge, particularly among young people.
The FILDAK 2026 is expected to attract a large audience and provide a platform for discussions on education, culture, and literature. With its focus on digital tools and educational materials, the event is poised to contribute to the development of Senegal's education sector and promote a love of reading among its citizens.
Key points
- The 18th FILDAK will focus on digital tools and educational materials, with Egypt as the guest of honor.
- The event aims to promote a love of reading and support the development of creative industries in Senegal.
- Nine countries have confirmed their participation in the event, which will feature a range of educational materials and tools.
