Resumption of classes at Cheikh-Anta-Diop University (Ucad) in Dakar: Teachers demand an immediate resumption
After months of interruption due to violence and political unrest, professors at the Cheikh-Anta-Diop University of Dakar (Ucad) expressed their desire to resume classes quickly. Since June, classes have been suspended following the sentencing of opponent Ousmane Sonko to two years in prison, thus provoking demonstrations and violent clashes in the Senegalese capital.
However, despite the academic council’s decision to resume classes, the university’s main teaching union, the Autonomous Union of Higher Education (Saes), expressed its dissatisfaction with the measure, considering it vague and unclear. According to David Célestin Faye, professor of mathematics and secretary general of Saes, “the faculties unanimously demand that classes resume. The university belongs to all Senegalese, not just the political class or teachers. It is time to reopen the doors of our institution and return to work.”
According to David Célestin Faye, it is unacceptable to be six months behind the school year due to political considerations. He also calls for people to stop pretending that distance learning is a viable solution, saying it doesn’t work for Ucad’s 150,000 students. He calls on the government to ensure the security of universities in order to allow classes to resume in peaceful conditions.
Saes encourages students and teachers to collaborate peacefully to allow classes to resume. He also asks politicians not to further disrupt the electoral calendar by leaving universities alone.
This request from Ucad professors highlights the importance of education and academic stability in a country. Resumption of classes would allow students to continue their studies and not suffer further delays, while contributing to the development of the country through access to quality education.
It is essential that authorities take measures to secure universities and ensure an environment conducive to learning. The reopening of Ucad would constitute an important step towards the normalization of the situation and the resumption of the educational process.
In conclusion, the request from Ucad professors to resume classes quickly demonstrates their commitment to education and the well-being of students. It is crucial that the authorities respond to this legitimate request and put in place the necessary measures to allow classes to resume in optimal conditions. Education is an essential pillar of a country’s development and must not be compromised by political unrest.