The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MESRI) has provided clarifications on the motivations that led to the organization of a national workshop dedicated to the preparation of a new scholarship policy and the revision of decree no. 2014-963 of August 1, 2014 setting the conditions for awarding study allowances in higher education.

"In accordance with its usual approach based on consultation and inclusivity, the MESRI organized this workshop in Dakar. The meeting brought together all stakeholders in the system: the services of the MESRI, those of the Ministry in charge of Finance, civil society organizations, parents' associations, the unions of teaching and administrative staff (PER and PATS) as well as student associations, learners of the Higher Institutes of Professional Education (ISEP) and representatives of external university sites" according to a press release.

The main objective of this participatory workshop was to lay the groundwork for a financial evaluation of the scholarship system for the period 2020-2025, with a projection to 2030. It also aimed to identify shortcomings in the current regulatory framework with a view to revising some of its provisions, to put an end to practices that do not conform to budgetary orthodoxy, while strengthening the social inclusiveness of the system.

Despite some students withdrawing during the first day, the work successfully achieved its objectives. The recommendations resulting from these discussions will be submitted to the relevant authorities for review. Furthermore, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MESRI) wishes to formally deny certain information circulating in the public sphere. Contrary to what has been claimed, there was never any question of calling into question students' acquired rights, reducing tuition fees, or eliminating scholarships.

In line with the guidelines set by the highest authorities, the ministry is undertaking a review of a new national policy for student grants. As part of this process, it is working in particular to better align grant payment periods with the actual academic calendar.

Finally, the MESRI expresses its gratitude to all the stakeholders who took part in this workshop and invites them to continue consultations in the next stages, with a view to reaching a consensus on a renewed regulatory framework and on the practical arrangements for awarding scholarships in higher education.