Workshop Report: Promoting Locally Led and Policy-Relevant Foundational Learning Research Priorities in Senegal
This report summarises key recommendations from an in-person workshop organised by Education Sub Saharan Africa (ESSA) and the Research for Equitable Access and Learning (REAL) Centre at the University of Cambridge with support from the Gates Foundation. The event took place on 25th June 2025 in Dakar, Senegal and focused on the theme: Promoting Locally Led and Policy-Relevant Foundational Learning Research Priorities in Senegal.
This workshop brought together 41 invited education stakeholders (including researchers, policymakers, and implementers) from across Senegal. Its aim was to support the development and use of locally led and policy-relevant research priorities for improving Foundational Learning (FL) outcomes in Senegal.
The report highlights:
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The need for stronger collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to improve research uptake.
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Key research gaps, including: teaching mathematics in local languages, the role of non-formal education, the use of digital tools and AI, inclusive education, mental health and learning outcomes, and teacher professional development.
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Recommendations for establishing national research agendas, creating knowledge-sharing platforms, building teacher capacity (including in digital tools), and mobilising both local and public-private funding for FL research
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