CESAG - Centre Africain d'Etudes Supérieures en Gestion

CESAG is a leading business school in Dakar, Senegal, operating as an international public institution under the BCEAO and serving the UEMOA region since 1985. Known for its rigorous, Africa-centered management education, the institution welcomes more than 1,500 students annually from over 40 countries. Its mission is to develop high-level managerial expertise and support regional integration through practical and innovative programs.

With a faculty of permanent and visiting experts, CESAG combines academic excellence with a multicultural environment. Its strategic location in Dakar, a major West African economic hub, contributes to its reputation as a benchmark in management education.

CESAG offers a diverse portfolio of MBAs and Master’s degrees tailored to Africa’s evolving economic landscape. Programs such as the MBA in Project Management, Marketing and Strategy, Islamic Finance, Health Economics, and Public Performance Management address critical sector needs across the continent. Each curriculum blends theoretical insight with hands-on learning through case studies and applied projects.

Courses are available in both French and English, with a mix of on-campus and hybrid formats. Admission typically requires a Bachelor’s degree or relevant professional experience, ensuring academically strong and professionally engaged cohorts prepared for leadership roles.

CESAG’s professional ecosystem is strengthened by an active alumni network of more than 10,000 graduates working in senior roles across Africa and beyond. Strong partnerships with banks, multinational firms, and international organizations give students access to real-world exposure, internships, and recruitment pipelines.

The school’s career services support students with coaching, résumé preparation, and networking events. Collaborations such as the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s programs offer opportunities to engage in impactful projects, enhancing employability. This ecosystem equips graduates with strategic thinking, analytical capabilities, and cross-cultural agility.

CESAG stands out for its blend of academic rigor, industry relevance, and regional impact. Programs are updated in partnership with key economic actors, ensuring alignment with market expectations and global trends. The multicultural environment fosters rich exchanges that prepare students for leadership in diverse contexts.

Ties with the BCEAO and other regional institutions provide unparalleled access to internships, research, and professional networks. Combined with modern facilities, digital learning tools, and an emphasis on ethical, leadership-focused education, CESAG offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring African leaders.

CESAG is a driver of innovation in African management education, advancing research on themes such as public sector reform, financial inclusion, and sustainable development. Its digital platforms enable flexible learning, integrating interactive tools and virtual collaboration to enhance accessibility across the region.

The school supports entrepreneurship through incubation programs that guide students in launching impactful ventures. Sustainability is embedded in campus initiatives and institutional strategy. Consistently ranked among Africa’s top business schools, CESAG’s research and applied solutions contribute directly to regional transformation.

What languages are programs offered in? CESAG teaches in both French and English, making programs accessible to a wide range of students.

Are internships available? Yes. Partnerships with corporations and alumni provide structured pathways for practical experience across sectors.

Does CESAG offer scholarships? Financial aid is available based on merit and need, with applicants encouraged to contact admissions for eligibility and processes.

Admission requires a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and may include professional experience depending on the program. Applicants submit transcripts, a CV, and a motivation letter, followed by an entrance exam. Application fees are 25,000 FCFA, with tuition for MBA programs averaging 2,795,000 FCFA per year.

CESAG’s Dakar campus offers modern facilities, including residences and academic centers. Students may choose on‑campus or partner housing. The academic year follows a semester structure, with applications usually open in spring and fall. Online applications are available on the school’s website.