Senghor University: A bridge linking Egypt to Africa and an embodiment of the Francophone partnership

Written by Ziad Abdel Fattah:

As one of the most important international educational institutions, it reflects the depth of Egyptian-African relations and embodies the role of education as a tool for achieving sustainable development in The African continentSenghor University is preparing to open its new campus in Burj Al Arab West Alexandria, to become the platform where the future of Africa is made and shaped.

Macron will visit Egypt next Saturday for the inauguration

French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to visit Egypt next Saturday to attend the opening.

A new campus for Senghor University on an area of 10 acres west of Alexandria.

The new campus, which was gifted to the university by the Egyptian government, spans 10 acres and includes two academic buildings, an administrative building, a conference hall building, a restaurant building, four student residence buildings, a staff residence building, and a visitor residence building, as well as a gymnasium, a swimming pool, a multi-purpose stadium, and squash courts, reflecting support for the university’s journey and its role in preparing African talents. The new campus embodies an integrated model of the Egyptian-Francophone partnership.

The Senghor University bears the name of the late Senegalese thinker and president, Léopold Sédar Senghor, as he is one of the most prominent symbols of African and Francophone culture. He was also the first president of Senegal after its independence from France. The university’s goal from the first moment of its establishment was clear: to invest in the African people through education and training, so that they would be the basis for any real renaissance.

The founding of Senghor University

Senghor University was established in 1989 under an agreement between the International Organization of the French Speakers and the Egyptian government. It was officially opened in 1990, and Egypt has hosted its headquarters for more than thirty years. Since then, the university has become a leading platform for preparing African cadres capable of leading their societies towards a better future. Egypt joined the International Organization of the Francophonie in 1970. The organization currently includes 88 countries, including 54 full member states, seven associate states, and 27 observer states. African countries represent the majority of the organization's members.

Senghor University, an international French-speaking university, aims to prepare innovative leaders to meet the challenges of sustainable development in Africa and Haiti through specialized programs in culture, environment, management and health.

The university annually receives about 200 students from more than 25 African countries, offers specialized master's programs, has 17 branches in Africa and Europe, 50 partner universities, and offers about 37 master's programs benefiting about 500 students.

Its educational system is characterized by a variety of methods that include institutional visits, scientific events, conferences and seminars, in addition to student exchange programs and professional training. The university has produced more than 4,000 graduates from 43 countries, which enhances its role as a leading institution in supporting sustainable development and capacity building in the African continent.