Senegal launches PAS Challenge 2026 to advance AI innovation

The Institut des Algorithmes du Sénégal (IAS) has launched the PAS Challenge 2026 at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar. The competition, which stands for “Problématique, Algorithme, Solution,” involves over 300 young talents from 102 teams representing nine different countries. Participants are tasked with developing technological solutions in four key areas: agriculture, health, transport, and the valorization of African languages.

In addition to the competition, the IAS is introducing an AI maturity diagnostic tool. Developed by the SALTIS scientific and technical committee, this tool is designed for startups, SMEs, large corporations, and government administrations. It evaluates six dimensions of AI readiness: global strategy, usage adequacy, technical levers, talent management, information and data, and security.

Complementing these technological efforts, digital inclusion initiatives like the Kajou experience under the Salouma project are being highlighted in Dakar. Kajou provides offline educational content via smartphone to support young agripreneurs facing internet connectivity and data cost challenges. Discussions have emphasized the potential of artificial intelligence to improve productivity and adapt training content to local languages and realities.