Senegal Primary Education System Overview

The Senegalese primary education system is modeled after the French system. Primary school is for children aged 7 to 12, encompassing six years of study divided into three two-year cycles. The primary cycle culminates in the CFEE (Certificate of Elementary Completion) and an entrance exam for the next level of education. The academic year typically runs from October to September, with an official primary school entrance age of 6. While French is the primary language of instruction, there has been a call for incorporating national languages.

While the specific details of the Primary 3 Science curriculum remain elusive, primary education generally focuses on core subjects like French, mathematics, and science, along with other subjects such as reading, geography, health care, and hygiene. Science education in Senegal often retains elements of the French curriculum, divided into Earth/life sciences and physical sciences.

Despite efforts to improve access to education, challenges persist in providing quality education. Many children in the early grades struggle with reading proficiency. The system also faces issues such as a lack of qualified teachers, inadequate resources, and social inequalities. The Ministry of National Education in Senegal oversees education policy.