On September 29, 2026, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye addressed the installation ceremony of the Senegalese Youth Consultative Council, emphasizing the need for the country's youth to be more than just consumers of artificial intelligence. He encouraged them to be active participants in shaping the digital transformation of their country and the world. The President highlighted the rapid changes brought about by technology and the importance of Senegalese youth being at the forefront of this change.
President Faye noted that the world is changing rapidly, with machines now capable of writing, calculating, translating, drawing, and diagnosing. He acknowledged that while these advancements bring many benefits, they also pose challenges, including the potential displacement of certain jobs. However, he expressed optimism that the youth of Senegal will be able to adapt and innovate, creating new opportunities and industries that do not yet exist.
The President emphasized that the youth of Senegal must not rely solely on the intelligence of others, particularly artificial intelligence. He stressed that a people who simply consume the output of machines without questioning or contributing to their development risk losing control of their own destiny. President Faye encouraged the youth to become engineers, linguists, jurists, and entrepreneurs who can create and shape the technology that will drive Senegal's future.
President Faye cited the example of a satellite designed and built by young Senegalese engineers, which was launched into orbit a few months ago. He praised the ingenuity and creativity of Senegal's youth, saying that they have the potential to make a significant impact in the world. He also referenced the legacy of Cheikh Anta Diop, a renowned Senegalese scientist who advocated for the empowerment of African youth through education and science.
The President's call to action is part of a broader effort to promote youth empowerment and participation in Senegal. On March 30, 2026, he announced the creation of the Youth Consultative Council, which aims to provide a platform for young people to contribute to decision-making and policy development. The Council's installation ceremony marked an important milestone in the implementation of this initiative.
President Faye emphasized that the Youth Consultative Council is not just a symbolic gesture, but a meaningful step towards creating a more inclusive and participatory governance system. He noted that in the past, decisions were often made without consulting young people, but this approach is no longer tenable in today's fast-changing world. The President expressed his commitment to working with the youth of Senegal to build a brighter future for the country.
The installation ceremony of the Youth Consultative Council was attended by young people from across Senegal, who are eager to contribute to the country's development and shape its future. President Faye's message of empowerment and encouragement resonated with the audience, who are now expected to play a more active role in shaping Senegal's policy and development agenda.
Key points
- President Bassirou Diomaye Faye urges Senegalese youth to be proactive in the digital age.
