Iran, Senegal plan Persian classes, scholarships
Iran and a Senegalese religious organization have agreed to pursue Persian-language training for teachers in Senegal and scholarships for its graduates at Iranian universities, as part of efforts to expand educational and cultural ties between the two countries.
The agreement was reached during a meeting between Mehdi Khaleghi Rad, Iran’s acting cultural counselor in Senegal, and Sheikh Yassine Mbengue, secretary-general of Senegal’s Council of Ahl al-Bayt Scholars.
The two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in cultural, religious, scientific and educational fields, as well as opportunities for academic exchanges and joint activities.
Mbengue outlined the council’s history, structure and activities, saying it operates a network of schools and religious seminaries across Senegal, in West Africa.
He also highlighted its cooperation with Al-Mustafa International University in Senegal and thanked the university for helping identify graduates and arrange their admission to further studies in Iran.
Mbengue requested that Iran’s cultural mission send a Persian-language instructor to train teachers and educators within the council’s network.
He also sought assistance in securing scholarships for the council’s graduates at Iranian universities.
Khaleghi Rad welcomed the proposals and said the cultural mission was prepared to cooperate in arranging Persian-language instruction. He added that scholarship requests would be pursued within available capacities and existing regulations.
The Iranian representative also praised the council’s work in promoting the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt, supporting their followers and providing religious and social services to Senegalese communities.