The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games are approaching fast, and President Faye is positioning them as a transformative national project. On July 30, during the traditional Concours général prize-giving, he urged the country’s top-performing students to dedicate their skills to the greater good.

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

« A historic responsibility for Sénégal »

For President Faye, the 2026 Games represent far more than sports excellence. He emphasized that Sénégal is poised to become the first African nation to host an Olympic event, calling it a historic responsibility for the continent.

Success, he argued, won’t be measured solely by stadiums or opening ceremonies, but by the lasting legacy it leaves for young people.

“This event embodies an ideal: a generation trained in excellence, respect, and friendship,” he declared, stressing how Olympic values should shape education, citizenship, and social cohesion.

Building engaged citizens, not just professionals

Addressing the award-winning students, the president underscored the vital role of education in shaping Sénégal’s future.

“Today, the Republic honors you. Tomorrow, it will call on you to serve.” His words echoed the belief that true achievement lies in contributing to the community.

His vision extends beyond producing skilled professionals—he wants to cultivate men and women who see their success as intertwined with the nation’s well-being. Faye also reaffirmed his commitment to a Republic built on equal opportunity, ensuring every child, regardless of background, has the chance to thrive.

Honoring educators and Awa Marie Coll Seck

The president took the opportunity to pay tribute to Awa Marie Coll Seck, the ceremony’s honorary patron and former Health Minister, whose career exemplifies how excellence can drive global impact.

“Excellence is only meaningful when applied with purpose,” he said, highlighting how quality education can open doors to the highest levels of influence.

Faye also recognized teachers as cornerstones of national development. “To teach is not just to transmit knowledge—it is to awaken conscience.” He urged educators to uphold rigor, integrity, and duty as guiding principles.

JOJ Dakar 2026: A legacy beyond medals

By centering the Youth Olympic Games in his speech, President Faye positioned Dakar 2026 as a catalyst for academic excellence, civic engagement, and youth empowerment.

The Games, he stressed, are not just about athletic performance—they’re an opportunity to reinforce educational values, showcase African youth, and create a sustainable legacy for future generations.