Back-to-school in Dakar: Up to 60 pupils per class pose a challenge for teaching support

The 2026–2027 school year is challenging Dakar middle schools to accommodate growing numbers of sixth-grade pupils while maintaining effective teaching support. At CEM Adama Ndiaye in Grand-Dakar, 169 pupils have been assigned to sixth grade; if they all enroll, the two usual classes would each have more than 84 pupils. Principal Alioune Badara Mbengue is waiting for final enrollment figures before deciding whether to open a third class. Numbers remain uncertain because some families may keep their children in private schools or seek places at well-regarded public schools such as CEM Seydou Nourou Tall.