University of Matam: construction delay concerns the rector

The rector of Souleymane Niang University in Matam, Mamadou Sidibé, called on the company responsible for the work to accelerate the pace of the construction site in order to allow the establishment to open its doors in October 2026, in accordance with the commitments announced by the authorities.

Visiting the site on Tuesday, the rector expressed his concern about the progress of the work. “We are starting to be worried because we are not seeing a very big progress in the work,” he said. Mamadou Sidibé notably pointed out the difficulties linked to the transport of construction materials, regularly mentioned by the company. “Each time, we are told about materials that have not yet been delivered, about a delivery problem,” he lamented, inviting the company to take the necessary measures to meet deadlines.

The rector also asked the authorities to increase pressure on the company so that the announced schedule is kept. He recalled that the opening of the University of Matam, like that of the University of Eastern Senegal, was announced for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Asked about the possibility of cash flow difficulties which would explain the delay, Mamadou Sidibé ruled out this hypothesis, specifying that he did not have any information in this regard. However, he acknowledged that problems with the delivery of materials could be linked to the international context and disruptions in maritime transport.

For the rector, these constraints cannot, however, justify a delay in the delivery of infrastructure. “The international context that they mentioned as a brake cannot be an excuse, because the word of authority is sacred,” he insisted.

Mamadou Sidibé finally insisted on the challenge of this opening for new high school graduates who will be sent to Matam. He believes that the infrastructure must be delivered on time to allow them to start their studies in conditions similar to those offered to students at other universities in the country.