Africa-Press. Senegalese economist Abdullah Ndiaye has been awarded the “Next Generation of African Economists” prize in its inaugural edition. This award is organized by two publications in partnership with a regional development bank, in recognition of his research on debt sustainability, based on a study addressing the hidden debt crisis in Senegal.
The award saw participation from over 70 candidates from various parts of the African continent, before a jury composed of seven prominent African economists selected Abdullah Ndiaye, an assistant professor at a business school, and an affiliated researcher at a development finance lab, as the recipient.
With this accolade, the 37-year-old Senegalese economist becomes the first winner of the award launched by the two publications in partnership with the regional development bank, supported by a foundation focused on international development studies and research.
The award was established to highlight a new generation of African economists whose work contributes to renewing economic thought on the continent and supporting public policies.
Ndiaye stated that the jury recognized his research as a contribution that benefits not only the academic community but also extends its benefits to African citizens, private sector investors, and public sector decision-makers across the continent.
The Senegalese researcher focuses on social protection issues, particularly the challenges of labor regulation, alongside mobilizing local resources and ensuring sovereign debt sustainability, with a special interest in Senegal’s situation following the discovery of hidden debts.
Ndiaye urged African economists to enhance collaboration and build common networks to address the continent’s issues, emphasizing the importance of African presence in centers of intellectual influence and decision-making.
He remarked, “I hope this award encourages younger generations to pursue scientific research and view it as a mission worth dedicating their lives to.” He added, “No one will grant us our place in centers of influence and decision-making; we must build it ourselves through perseverance and collective effort.”
