This essay explores how the evolving relationship between religion and the state is affecting the educational system in Senegal. In 2002, the state enacted reforms that introduced the religious education into the state school system and also allowed all children enrolled in the daara (Senegalese Qur'anic schools) to be considered schooled in the same way as those enrolled in public schools. These are profound new developments, the author argues, that challenge the state's longtime commitment to secular education. The decision to introduce religious education into the state system is the result of both the increasing need for politicians to appease religious authorities, and the growing influence of Mouride tariqa (Sufi brotherhood). The inclusion of daara students in national educational statistics in order to meet development markers set by international organizations. The daaras are controversial institutions that have also come to the attention of human rights groups because of the strong association between daara students (talibes) and mendicancy. While the author urges that the question will be approached from a human rights' perspective--recognizing the right of all children to receive an education and be free from exploitation--she also outlines a series of measures designed to protect the rights of these children.

Last modified

• 01/01/2019

Creator

• Penda Mbow

DOI

• https://doi.org/10.21985/N24T9F

Alternate Identifier

• 09-007

Keyword

• Buffett
• Religious Education
• Secularism

Date created

• 2009

Resource type

• Research Paper

Rights statement

• In Copyright