Senegal parliamentary inquiry investigates ‘Un étudiant, un ordinateur’ program

A parliamentary inquiry in Senegal is investigating the ‘Un étudiant, un ordinateur’ (One Student, One Computer) program following allegations of mismanagement and missing equipment. Recent hearings have focused on the administrative processes within the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MESRI). Several former and current officials testified that they were not involved in the initial procurement design or the official public procurement plan.

Fatou Seck, Director General of Oumou Group, testified in defense of her company against accusations regarding 2,000 missing computers. She asserted that all 20,000 units ordered were delivered in two waves—one by air and one by sea—and provided signed reception certificates from the Cheikh Hamidou Kane Digital University. Seck argued that the controversy stems from a 500 million FCFA debt owed to her company by the state, rather than a failure to deliver goods.

The proceedings have also sparked a legal debate regarding the live broadcasting of parliamentary hearings. While proponents argue it ensures transparency in the use of public funds, critics raise concerns regarding the presumption of innocence and the protection of individual reputations.