The National Secretariat of the Autonomous Union of Higher Education (SAES) convened on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Cheikh anta Diop University of Dakar to address several critical issues facing the Senegalese university system. Following this meeting, the union released statements concerning the recruitment of teacher-researchers in Guinea and the disbursement of certain pensions.
Teacher Recruitment in Guinea: A Closer Look
Regarding the recruitment process in Guinea,the SAES confirmed receiving a list of fifty-nine (59) Senegalese educators involved. According to the union, forty-one (41) of these individuals are unemployed doctoral degree holders, while six (6) are retired teacher-researchers, collectively representing approximately 80% of the group.
Notably, the SAES highlighted that twelve (12) educators on this list are currently employed at public higher education institutions within Senegal. it’s crucial to remember that, in accordance with existing regulations, these educators are prohibited from simultaneously holding permanent positions in other public or private organizations, whether national or international.
However, the union emphasized that these twelve educators constitute only 0.4% of the total number of permanent teacher-researchers and researchers at Senegalese public universities, who continue their work in teaching, research, and administration.
The SAES reiterated that teacher-researcher mobility and availability are governed by Law No. 81-59 of November 9, 1981, concerning the status of university teaching staff. They urged all parties involved to adhere to the provisions outlined in this legislation.
Moreover, the SAES recalled the signing of a university and scientific cooperation agreement between Senegal and Guinea on May 23, 2025, which addresses the mobility of teacher-researchers, support staff, and students. The union is now calling on authorities in both countries to clarify the implementation details of this agreement.
Addressing Staffing Needs in Senegal
In a separate matter, the SAES urged the ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation (MESRI) to prioritize the recruitment of unemployed doctoral degree holders, as stipulated in the Government-SAES agreement of January 6, 2023. This action, they believe, will increase the proportion of permanent teachers and improve student-to-faculty ratios.
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