In Senegal, following recent violent clashes between police and students at the universities of Dakar and Saint-Louis, calm has officially returned. The unrest stemmed from students' demands for free meals in light of delays in their scholarship payments. During intense protests, students clashed with security forces, leading to school closures and a concerning impact on student welfare.

Despite the calming down of the situation, significant challenges remain for students in terms of food provision. The closure of dining facilities, known as 'restos U', has left tens of thousands of university students struggling to find enough to eat. Reports indicate that many students do not receive their scholarships, thus exacerbating an already fragile living situation. The urgency of the matter is heightened by the ongoing economic pressures facing the student population.

Looking ahead, the Senegalese government must address the underlying issues related to student welfare and funding to ensure stability in higher education. Failure to provide adequate support could lead to further unrest, as students are increasingly vocal about their frustrations over the management of scholarships and their general living conditions. This situation reflects broader socio-economic challenges faced by young people in Senegal and may require a strategic response to mitigate future protests and ensure the welfare of the students is prioritized.