The Tivaouane department in Senegal is gearing up for the 2026-2027 school year, which commenced on October 5 for teachers and October 7 for students. According to the Inspection of Education and Training (IEF), out of 3,554 expected teachers, 2,854 have reported for duty, marking an 80.30% attendance rate. This includes 2,223 out of 2,765 elementary school teachers, 105 out of 127 preschool teachers, and 508 out of 568 middle school teachers.
The IEF reported varying attendance rates across different educational levels. Middle schools have the highest attendance rate at 89.44%, while centers for vocational training (CFP) have the lowest at 19.15%, with only 18 out of 94 teachers present. Despite these numbers, the IEF confirmed that no schools were affected by flooding. The department is, however, facing significant challenges, including a shortage of 59 teachers: 7 in preschool, 46 in elementary, and 9 in middle school, particularly in mathematics and science.
The shortage of educational furniture is another critical issue. The department needs 73,416 tables and benches, but there is a deficit of 12,335. Even after repairs, 5,744 more tables and benches are required, with 289 needed for preschool and 5,455 for elementary schools. To address these challenges, the IEF plans to implement proximity management through districts and CODEC, continue training in bilingual didactics, conduct follow-up tours starting October 5, and organize daily flag-raising ceremonies in collaboration with defense and security forces.
In anticipation of the new school year, school administrators and principals have been tasked with ensuring all students attend classes on October 7 and submitting a report on the first day of school. The IEF is also working on strategies to improve the situation, including the use of digital tools and enhanced monitoring of the educational environment. The theme for the new school year is "Ubbi tey, jàng tey" or "Open today, start lessons today."
The Senegalese government and local authorities have been urged to prioritize education and provide necessary resources to address these shortages. The situation in Tivaouane reflects broader challenges facing the education sector in Senegal, where ensuring adequate infrastructure and personnel remains a significant concern. Efforts to improve educational outcomes and provide equal opportunities for all students are ongoing.
As the school year progresses, stakeholders will be monitoring the situation closely to assess the impact of the current shortages and the effectiveness of the measures being implemented. The IEF and other educational authorities will need to work closely with teachers, students, and the community to overcome these obstacles and provide a quality education for all students in the Tivaouane department.
The challenges faced by the Tivaouane department are not unique, as many regions in Senegal struggle with similar issues. However, the collaborative efforts between educational authorities, local governments, and the community may offer a model for addressing these challenges and improving educational outcomes across the country.
Key points
- The Tivaouane department faces a shortage of 59 teachers and 5,744 tables and benches ahead of the 2026-2027 school year.
