Senegal Lower Secondary School Curriculum (Collège) - English

Overview

Information on the specific curriculum for English at the lower secondary (Collège) level in Senegal is limited. However, it's known that English is taught as a subject in secondary schools across the country. French is the primary language of instruction in most schools. Lower secondary education lasts for 4 years. There is a growing interest in English among young Senegalese, with English clubs emerging as a popular way to learn the language outside of formal schooling.

Language Policy

While French is the official language of instruction in Senegal, there are efforts to incorporate national languages like Wolof, Pulaar, and Serer into the curriculum, particularly in early grades. English is taught as a foreign language in secondary schools.

Teacher Training

Teachers in Senegal undergo a nine-month teacher education program through Regional Training Centers for Education Personnel. There are programs aimed at improving the quality of education, including teacher effectiveness and bilingual reading instruction. The Regional English Language Office (RELO) at the U.S. Embassy in Dakar supports the professional development of English teachers.

Challenges and Initiatives

Senegal's education system faces challenges in providing quality education, despite efforts to increase access. There are initiatives focused on improving early grade reading instruction and promoting bilingual education. A recent plan aims to integrate English into compulsory education starting at age 11.