Press releases - 2026 March 31
The President of the Republic, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, presided this Monday at the CICAD over the official ceremony marking the National Day of Daaras. This major event underscores the institutional recognition of these Quranic schools, which are historic pillars in the transmission of knowledge and values in Senegal.
Before an audience of religious, traditional, and administrative authorities, as well as stakeholders from the education sector, the Head of State delivered a strong message centered on the promotion and modernization of Daaras. “On the occasion of the National Day of Daaras, I reaffirmed the State’s commitment to fully recognizing the place of this centuries-old institution in the building of our Nation,” he stated.
The President praised the fundamental role of Daaras throughout history, emphasizing that they “transmit far more than knowledge,” by shaping “consciences,” instilling “ethics,” and forming “a vision of the world.” In his view, these institutions constitute an essential foundation of national identity and social cohesion.
In a context marked by the challenges of transforming the education system, Bassirou Diomaye Faye stressed the need to reconcile heritage and modernity. “Our responsibility is to preserve this legacy while aligning it with the demands of our time,” he affirmed, calling for an inclusive reform adapted to contemporary realities.
The Head of State also highlighted the conclusions of the National Assises on Daaras, which he presented as a strategic roadmap. These are notably based on “listening,” “territorial anchoring,” and “collective ambition,” principles intended to guide public action in this area.
Within this framework, the President announced strengthened State support to drive the transformation of Daaras. This commitment will translate into improved learning conditions, enhanced status for Quranic teachers, and the full integration of Daaras into the reform of the national education system.
Finally, the President placed this approach within a broader vision of national sovereignty. “There can be no lasting sovereignty without mastery of our educational references,” he concluded, calling for collective mobilization to make Daaras a strategic lever for Senegal’s human and cultural development.
The ceremony held at the CICAD thus marks an important milestone in the recognition and promotion of Daaras, at the heart of the educational transformation agenda led by the Senegalese authorities.