Senegal university student dies after protest clashes with police

Incident at Cheikh Anta Diop University

A medical student has died following clashes between police and students at Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD) in Dakar, Senegal. The unrest, which occurred on Mon, involved protests against delays in grant payments. According to a government statement, the deceased is identified as Abdoulaye Ba, a second-year medical student.

In a statement, government spokeswoman Marie-Rose Khady Fatou Faye expressed condolences to Ba's family and the university community. She noted that "serious events" led to the student's death and announced that an investigation would be conducted. The government urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and act responsibly.

A press conference is scheduled at the prime minister's office, with the involvement of the ministers of justice, interior, and armed forces to address the situation.

Senegal's population is predominantly young, with approximately 75% under 35 years old. The election of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in 2024 raised expectations for change, particularly among disadvantaged youth. His administration, alongside Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, has pledged to combat corruption and rebuild national institutions amidst ongoing challenges, including a significant debt scandal.

Based on reporting by Africanews.