President Faye, UNESCO DG discuss partnership ahead of Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

Dakar, Senegal — President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye on Monday received Ms. Audrey Azoulay, outgoing Director-General of UNESCO, at the Presidential Palace, where both leaders reaffirmed the strong partnership between Senegal and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

The meeting highlighted the “excellent relations” shared between Senegal and UNESCO and examined future areas of collaboration, particularly as the country prepares to host the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the first-ever Olympic event on African soil.

According to the Presidency, discussions centered on UNESCO’s technical and cultural support for the Games, as well as expanded cooperation in education, preservation of cultural heritage, and the growing field of artificial intelligence.

President Faye praised UNESCO’s longstanding role in Senegal’s educational and cultural development, stating, “Senegal remains committed to a partnership with UNESCO based on knowledge, culture, and innovation in service of youth and sustainable development.”

Ms. Azoulay, whose tenure as Director-General concludes this year, has overseen major UNESCO initiatives in West Africa, particularly in education reform, cultural safeguarding, and digital innovation. Her visit comes as Senegal accelerates infrastructure and policy preparations ahead of Dakar 2026.

The Presidency emphasized that the government aims to deepen joint efforts that will strengthen opportunities for young people, promote digital transformation, and uplift Senegal’s cultural identity on the world stage.

The 2026 Youth Olympic Games are expected to bring unprecedented global attention to Senegal, generating investment, tourism, job creation, and youth-centered economic growth.

With UNESCO reaffirming its technical support, Senegal positions itself not only as host to a historic Olympic milestone, but as a rising continental leader in education and cultural diplomacy.