In a context marked by growing sensitivity surrounding moral issues in Senegal, the National Union of Parents of Students of Senegal (UNAPEES) is breaking its silence. Through its president, Mamadou Fané, the organization is calling for synergy between the State, schools, and especially families to preserve the integrity of the educational environment.

The debate surrounding homosexuality is not new in our country, but recent events, marked by social tensions and firm stances from the authorities, have brought the issue back to the forefront. For Mamadou Fané, this renewed interest from public authorities is welcome. "We encourage the authorities to continue their efforts in this direction," he emphasizes, while advocating for an inclusive approach that incorporates the expertise of civil society in order to build safeguards against what he calls a "scourge" within institutions.

The school, a site under high surveillance

UNAPEES, whose core mission remains safeguarding the interests of learners, does not limit itself to an observer role. The organization has within it a Conflict Resolution, Prevention and Health Commission, a true operational arm for addressing cases of "deviant behavior" reported in the field.

However, Mr. Fané does not hide the current limitations of the system: "We are experiencing difficulties at the grassroots level, as they do not always have the necessary skills to inform and communicate effectively in schools." This admission underscores the urgent need to strengthen parents' communication skills at the local level.

Family, the "first line of defense"

For the president of UNAPEES, the solution will not come solely from the law or the school administration. The cornerstone of the response remains the family unit.

Mr. Fané insists that only parents are able to detect "from the first signs, suspicious changes in behavior in their children."

He believes that "elders" play an important role. "The emphasis is on the educational function of mothers and aunts. It is they who have the crucial mission of raising awareness among young girls about physiological changes and the issues of their identity," Mr. Fané points out.

In conclusion, Mamadou Fané reiterates a fundamental truth: "The social recognition enjoyed by parents is a powerful lever that must be activated. By making the family the primary framework for prevention, UNAPEES hopes not only to stabilize the school environment, but also to perpetuate the values that underpin Senegalese society."