Senegal Invests $233 Million to Train Teachers in Digital Skills and AI
Senegal has launched a $233 million (CFA 130 billion) national program aimed at training more than 105,000 teachers and school administrators in digital tools and artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative is part of the government’s new Education Digital Strategy (2025–2029), which seeks to modernize the education system and prepare schools for the digital age.
Announced by the Ministry of National Education, the program will focus on building digital literacy and AI proficiency among educators at all levels of the school system. Officials say the goal is to strengthen teaching methods, improve administrative efficiency, and integrate technology into both classroom learning and school management.
How the Digital and AI Training Will Be Delivered
The training will be delivered through an online learning platform accessible via computers, tablets, and smartphones. Participants will complete interactive modules covering areas such as digital communication, AI applications in education, cybersecurity, and data protection.
Each course will include video lessons, self-paced exercises, and certified assessments. Teachers will also be trained on how to use digital tools for classroom instruction, student evaluation, and lesson planning.
The Ministry says the program is designed to ensure that educators can confidently adopt new technologies and guide students in using AI responsibly. It will also raise awareness of digital ethics and online safety among young learners.
Bridging the Digital Divide
To complement the training, the government plans to distribute computers to students, particularly those in science and technology streams, to encourage hands-on learning.
Officials emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce the digital divide between urban and rural schools. Many institutions outside major cities still struggle with limited access to electricity, devices, and stable internet connectivity.
By training teachers and expanding digital infrastructure, the government hopes to make technology-based education more inclusive and accessible across all regions of the country.
Building a Digital Future
Senegal’s investment in teacher training is one of the largest education technology initiatives in West Africa. It aligns with national priorities under the Smart Senegal Program, which promotes digital transformation across public services, education, and the economy.
Through this program, the country aims to position itself as a regional leader in digital education and AI integration. The government believes that strengthening digital capacity in schools will help prepare students for future job markets and drive long-term innovation.
The Ministry of National Education has not yet disclosed the full implementation timeline, but the program is expected to begin rolling out in phases over the next academic years.
