With just over a year remaining before the Youth Olympic Games (JOJ) Dakar 2026, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has positioned this event as a transformative national project. Addressing top-performing students at the annual Concours général awards ceremony on July 30, he urged them to dedicate their intellectual gifts to the greater good of society.

The theme of this year’s ceremony—“Senegal at the dawn of the Youth Olympic Games: rebuilding the meaning of common good through Olympic values”—guided his address.

« A historic responsibility for Senegal »

For President Faye, the JOJ Dakar 2026 represents far more than a sporting spectacle. He emphasized that Senegal will become the first African nation to host an Olympic event, calling it a historic responsibility for the continent.

The Head of State stressed that the success of these Games cannot be measured solely by infrastructure or opening ceremonies, but by the lasting legacy they leave for future generations.

« This event embodies an ideal: a youth shaped by excellence, respect, and friendship », he declared, asserting that Olympic values must permeate schools, citizenship, and social cohesion.

Cultivating engaged citizens

Speaking directly to the laureates of the Concours général, President Faye underscored the pivotal role of education in shaping the Senegal of tomorrow.

« Today, the Republic honors you. Tomorrow, it will call on you to serve it », he told the distinguished students. His vision extends beyond professional competence—it aims to nurture individuals who recognize that personal achievement gains true meaning when it serves the community.

The President reaffirmed his commitment to building a Republic founded on equal opportunity, ensuring every child—regardless of background—can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Honoring educators and Awa Marie Coll Seck

During the ceremony, President Faye paid tribute to the event’s patron, Awa Marie Coll Seck, a former Health Minister and internationally recognized figure in medical research. He highlighted her career as proof that « excellence derives its value from how it is applied », demonstrating how quality education can lead to global leadership.

He also honored the nation’s teachers, whom he described as cornerstones of development.

« Teaching is not merely about imparting knowledge; it is about awakening consciences, » he said, urging educators to uphold rigor, integrity, and duty.

JOJ Dakar 2026: an educational and civic legacy

By centering the Youth Olympic Games in his remarks, President Faye aims to transform Dakar 2026 into a catalyst for academic excellence, civic engagement, and youth empowerment. Beyond athletic performances, the Games are framed as an opportunity to strengthen educational values, celebrate African youth, and create a sustainable legacy for generations to come.