Republic of Senegal
Estimated population 13.5 million
Population density (people per square mile) 166
Population doubling time 27 years
GDP per capita US$ 1,046
Benchmark approximations
Population doubling time in years:
USA 79. Canada 81. Germany declining. UK 248. Russia declining. China 110. Philippines 41.
Population density (people per square mile)
USA 85. Canada 9. Germany 593. UK 660. Russia 21. China 368. Philippines 795.
GDP per capita in US$:
USA 53,000. Canada 52,000. Germany 46,200. UK 41,800. Russia 14,600. China 6,800. Philippines 2,770
RECENT HISTORY
Formerly a French colony, gaining independence in 1960
Following independence the politicos balanced support between influential conservative Muslims and the need for economic and social improvements. Politics were marred by fraud, corruption and a declared state of emergency. Tensions with neighbouring countries, military involvement in neighbours’ coups and their ethnic violence, plus Senegal’s own smaller insurgency problems have all taken their toll on its prosperity.
EDUCATION
Education in Senegal is, in theory, compulsory for all children between the ages of 7 and 12. In 2002–2003, however, only 80 percent of primary school-age children and 19 percent of secondary school-age children were actually attending school.
Western education has existed in Senegal since the 19th century; its first goal was to train the Senegalese in French culture and to help with colonial administration.
Since independence Senegal has made particular efforts to increase school enrolment in rural areas, although with limited success; the literacy rate remains one of the lowest in the world.
Among the secondary schools, the Faidherbe Lycée at Saint-Louis and the Van Vollenhoven Lycée at Dakar are the oldest and most renowned. Technical education is expanding and is provided by institutions in Dakar, Saint-Louis, Diourbel, Kaolack, and Louga.