2025 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"
Commune of Khombole: primary school modernization program co-constructed with the population of Khombole
The elementary school modernization program, co-constructed with citizens, is an initiative of the Commune of Khombole, born in 2024 as part of the municipal policy Ouby Tay Diang Tay, which means “classes start on the same day as the start of the school year”. This program aims to modernize elementary school while mobilizing all local players - workers, associations, parents and authorities - in a participatory approach.
Khombole, a historical and cultural commune in Senegal, is characterized by strong citizen involvement and a desire to improve access to education in an environment marked by socio-economic challenges. This program is part of an inclusive and sustainable vision, responding to growing educational needs while reinforcing eco-responsible practices.
The main objective is to guarantee modern, accessible educational infrastructures from the start of the school year. Specific objectives include mobilizing citizens, making the most of local resources and raising environmental awareness by planting trees in modernized schools. The methodology followed is based on participatory mapping of needs, the establishment of a monitoring committee involving citizens and authorities, and rigorous planning in stages: identification of schools, mobilization of resources and monitoring-evaluation.
Through co-construction, the program has modernized the Touba Fall school, providing students and teachers with an environment conducive to learning and working. It has also helped to reduce delays in the start of the school year, strengthen citizen participation and establish more inclusive governance. On the environmental front, tree planting has raised awareness of ecological issues in local communities, helping to combat global warming.
In addition to modernizing infrastructures, this initiative has redefined local governance by fully integrating citizens into communal management. It represents a replicable model for other communities, contributing to education, sustainable development and the institutionalization of participatory democracy.
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