Université Senghor: Integrating Innovation and Tradition for Future Leaders

Université Senghor
Université Senghor

In Alexandria—a city steeped in cultural heritage—higher education institutions face a critical task: integrating innovative technologies and fostering global collaboration within their established curricula. This strategic approach aims to cultivate graduates equipped to navigate a changing world. By bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, universities contribute to a robust learning environment that empowers future leaders to collaborate across cultures.

Université Senghor stands as a beacon of higher education and cultural collaboration in Alexandria. Established in May 1989, the university was born out of a visionary decision by the summit of heads of state and government of French-speaking nations. Since then, Université Senghor has been making significant strides in fostering sustainable development in Africa through focused training and capacity building in the French language.

The university’s commitment to this cause reflects its educational ethos and honors the legacy of its namesake, Léopold Sédar Senghor—the Inaugural President of Senegal, a renowned poet and a staunch advocate for Francophonie. Université Senghor’s mission and efforts highlight the vital role of higher education in addressing contemporary challenges and promoting cross-cultural collaboration.

Cornerstones of Success

Vision

Université Senghor envisions becoming a major player in the training and capacity building of executives in and for Africa. This vision is driven by a clear mission—to train, in French, creative executives capable of meeting the challenges of sustainable development in Africa.

Mission

The mission and vision of Université Senghor significantly contribute to its success through several key aspects:

  • Focused Training: By concentrating on training executives in French, the university ensures accessibility to a broad demographic in Francophone Africa, thereby maximizing its impact.
  • Sustainable Development: The emphasis on sustainable development aligns the university’s training with global priorities and local necessities, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to their communities and countries.
  • Creative Executives: The mission of training creative executives encourages innovation and problem-solving, qualities essential for addressing Africa’s unique and evolving challenges.
  • Capacity Building: The university’s vision to be a major player in capacity building highlights its role in enhancing the overall skill set and capabilities of African professionals.
  • Leadership and Influence: By aiming to be a key institution in executive training, Université Senghor positions itself as a leader in higher education in Africa, attracting partnerships, funding and top-tier students.
  • Regional Relevance: The university’s focus on Africa ensures that its programs and research are highly relevant to the continent’s specific needs.

Differentiating through Specialized Programs

Université Senghor sets itself apart from other universities in Africa through its specialized master’s degrees and training courses, emphasizing unique aspects that address specific regional needs:

  • Focus on Francophone Africa: The university primarily serves Francophone Africa and offers programs in French, creating a niche market.
  • Specialized Master’s Degrees: Tailored to the specific needs and challenges of sustainable development, these programs equip students with practical skills and knowledge in areas such as public health, cultural management, environmental management, and international projects management.
  • Training for Creative Executives: The focus on creativity and innovation in leadership training produces graduates well-prepared to drive change and development.
  • Capacity Building: By extending beyond academic education to practical, hands-on training, the university enhances the skill set and capabilities of African professionals.
  • Sustainable Development Focus: Programs designed with sustainable development in mind attract students and professionals committed to making a positive impact.

Differentiating through a Networks Based Strategy

Université Senghor also differentiates itself from other universities through its networks-based strategy relying on:

  • An international network of associate professors and experts to deliver module-based master or certificate programs during one-to two-weeks missions.
  • A network of more than 40 national partner institutions, spread across the continent and even beyond, offering Senghor’s programs in evening and weekend courses to working participants who cannot leave their jobs to join Alexandria Campus due to their professional commitments. More than 35 master programs are offered all over the continent in that way.
  • An active network of national alumni associations in most African countries, all together connected through a rotating general secretariat, held for 6 months by each of them. They help the University in many topics such as conducting local surveys on training needs or teaching in the University programs.

Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities Challenges

  • Adaptability: Keeping curricula relevant to the rapidly changing socio-economic conditions in Africa requires constant updates.
  • Technological Infrastructure: Developing and maintaining modern technological infrastructure can be challenging.

Opportunities

  • Growing Demand: Increasing demand for higher education and professional training in Africa presents a substantial student base.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with international organizations and universities enhance program quality and provide additional resources.

Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Université Senghor fosters innovation and entrepreneurial culture by emphasizing practical skills, creativity and problem-solving in its specialized programs. The university promotes research and development initiatives, provides entrepreneurship training and supports student startups through incubation programs and mentoring.

The planned entrepreneurial student status will allow adjustments to study programs, helping students develop their business ideas.

Collaborations with international partners and interdisciplinary projects further enhance exposure to cutting-edge practices. These efforts collectively prepare students to contribute effectively to Africa’s socio-economic development.

The Observatory of Entrepreneurial Initiatives and Practices

The Observatory of Entrepreneurial Initiatives and Practices at Université Senghor supports entrepreneurship by researching trends and best practices in African universities. It offers mentorship and training, organizes workshops and networking events, connects aspiring entrepreneurs with investors and industry partners, and provides resources and tools.

By fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial culture, the observatory equips students with the skills and networks needed to succeed in their business ventures, thereby contributing to economic development and innovation in Africa.

Strategic International Collaborations

Université Senghor enhances the quality of education and training through strategic collaborations with major international institutions and organizations in several ways:

  • Joint Programs and Degrees: Partnering with leading universities globally, such as the University of Luxembourg or The National School of Public Administration of Quebec, Université Senghor offers joint programs and degrees that provide students with access to diverse expertise and resources.
  • Funding and Resources: Partnerships with international organizations such as the International Organization of La Francophonie, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, or the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, often come with financial support, grants and access to advanced resources, all of which contribute to the quality of education.
  • Workshops and Conferences: Hosting and participating in international workshops, seminars and conferences helps disseminate knowledge and network, keeping the university at the forefront of educational and technological advancements.
  • Curriculum Development: Working with global experts, Université Senghor continuously updates and improves its curriculum to meet international standards and effectively address contemporary issues.

Through these collaborative efforts, Université Senghor ensures that its educational programs remain relevant, innovative and of high quality, benefiting all its students, at the Alexandria Campus, at external campuses in Africa and Europe as well as online.

Notable Alumni Achievements

The success stories of Université Senghor alumni are a testament to the institution’s impact on the development of Africa:

  • Oumar DIOP: Managing Director of the Millennium Challenge Account – Senegal II
  • Adama AYIKOUE: Director of Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Togo.
  • Fatou SENE: Managing Director of the Dakar Blaise Senghor Regional Cultural Center in Senegal.
  • Amani ABOU ZEID: Commissioner for Energy and Infrastructure at the African Union in Ethiopia.
  • Lova ANDRIAMASINORO: Technical Assistant for the Peace Fund Secretariat at the African Union Commission
  • Ibrahima Sorry SARR: Director of General Administration and Equipment at the Ministry of Tourism and Air Transport, Senegal.
  • Moussa CISSE: Managing Director of the National Petroleum Company, Guinea.
  • Hermann Bély NIANGAO: Managing Director of Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism of Burkina Faso.
  • Elhadj DIALLO: National Director of Employment and Employability at the Ministry of Technical Education, Guinea.
  • Alioune DIONE: Minister of Microfinance and Social and Solidarity Economy, Senegal.
  • Tanya MERCERON: Senior Program Coordinator for the Congo Basin at The International Union for the Conservation of Nature.
  • Adjaratou Wakha AIDARA NDIAYE:Executive Director of the NGO Partners West Africa, Sénégal.
  • Bernardine Terrach BONARE: Gender and Election Analyst at UN Women in Bangui.

Engaging Alumni and Maintaining Connections

Université Senghor engages alumni and maintains connections with graduates through various initiatives, including inviting them to return as professors, involving alumni associations in various activities, inviting them to networking events and delivering alumni-focused communications. These efforts strengthen the bond between current students and alumni, enhancing the university’s network of accomplished professionals across Africa.

Mentorship and Professional Development

Université Senghor places a strong emphasis on mentorship and professional development to prepare students for leadership roles in Africa’s development. Through its alumni network, students are mentored by graduates who are well-connected within numerous professional circles.

Alumni assist new graduates in finding rewarding internships and preparing for their re-entry into the workforce. This mentorship and professional development foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation, encouraging students to think critically and creatively about solutions to Africa’s development challenges.

Promoting Human Rights and Gender Equality

Université Senghor integrates human rights and gender equality principles into its academic programs and campus policies. The curriculum includes courses on human rights and gender studies, and the university supports initiatives and events that advocate for gender equality. The university’s gender policy ensures equal opportunities for all students and staff, cultivating a culture of respect and equality.

Supporting Diversity and Inclusion

Université Senghor promotes diversity and inclusion among its student body through several initiatives and practices. Firstly, the university actively recruits students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring representation of various ethnicities, cultures, religions, and countries.

Additionally, Université Senghor fosters an inclusive campus environment by providing support services tailored to the needs of different groups, including marginalized communities. The university also organizes events, workshops and discussions that celebrate diversity and promote understanding and respect among its members. By valuing and embracing diversity, Université Senghor creates a vibrant and enriching academic community where all individuals can thrive and contribute to the university’s mission of excellence in education and research.

Also, by establishing campuses in multiple countries, Université Senghor ensures that its educational offerings are accessible to students and young professionals in different regions. These campuses serve as hubs for collaboration, knowledge exchange and cultural enrichment, furthering the university’s mission of fostering cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.

Through its multi-campus approach, Université Senghor demonstrates its commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion at both local and regional levels, ultimately strengthening its impact on education and development across Africa.

Rigorous Selection and Scholarship Criteria

The selection process for the master’s program at Université Senghor is rigorous and involves several stages to ensure the selection of the most promising candidates. At the Alexandria campus, the process begins with the submission of an online application file. Candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s or an equivalent recognized degree in their chosen specialty and have a minimum of one year of professional experience. Approximately 3000 individuals apply at this initial stage.

Subsequently, an international online written examination is organized for around 1500 applicants who have passed the first stage. About 500 of these candidates are then invited to participate in an oral interview. Ultimately, 160 students are accepted into the program, with 120 to 130 students receiving full scholarships from the university, covering most living expenses.

This competitive process ensures that only the most capable and motivated students are admitted and supported financially, aligning with the university’s commitment to excellence and personal and professional development.

At the university’s external campuses, the master’s program primarily targets working professionals. These programs are offered in evening and weekend classes. Given that the programs typically lead to one-year master’s degrees, applicants must already hold a master’s degree or, if not, a bachelor’s degree along with at least three years of professional experience in the relevant field of study. The selection for these programs is mainly based on the submitted application file, and no scholarships are provided for these programs.

Attributes of Excellence and Future Impact

Université Senghor’s key attributes include its focus on sustainable development, specialized programs tailored to African needs, and its commitment to training creative and innovative leaders. The university’s partnerships with international institutions and dedication to promoting human rights and gender equality further enhance its reputation for excellence. The unique approach of inviting alumni to return as professors contributes to the university’s success.

In the future, Université Senghor is poised to significantly impact education and development in Africa by continuing to produce well-equipped graduates who can drive progress, address regional challenges and foster a culture of innovation, thus paving the way for a brighter future for the continent.

A New Campus for a New Start

Building on its Francophone and African strategy, the Egyptian state has invested tens of millions of dollars to provide Université Senghor with a new modern, technological and environmentally friendly campus at Alexandria, capable of accommodating twice as many students and hosting large scientific or cultural events.

Meanwhile, the other donor countries of the University—France, Canada, the French Community of Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec—continue or even increase their financial support to accompany this development.

With this new top-tier infrastructure in Africa, an inspiring new experience will soon be offered to our students, further elevating the excellence and reputation of Université Senghor.

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