In a context marked by doubt, criticism, and a profound shift in media practices, the Senegalese press finds itself at a crucial turning point in its history. Caught between the demand for credibility, the pressure of immediacy, and the growing influence of social media, one question arises: how to reconcile the public with its news while preserving the essence of the profession? It is this question that the Convention of Young Reporters of Senegal (CJRS) sought to address by organizing the 5th edition of the National Press Conference.

Under the theme "Senegalese Journalism: Crisis of Confidence or Necessary Transformation? Dialogue Between Generations," this edition goes far beyond a simple awards ceremony. It aims to be an act of recognition, transmission, and collective reflection on the future of a profession essential to democracy.

To honor without idealizing, to question without undermining

The National Press Association is founded on a strong conviction: the future of journalism cannot be envisioned without looking at its past with lucidity and respect. Behind the famous bylines, familiar voices, and faces known to the general public lies a multitude of journeys marked by rigor, sacrifice, passion, and service.

This 5th edition honored 22 journalists, including a deceased colleague, a symbol of unwavering commitment. Alongside them, a technician and a driver were also recognized, powerfully reminding us that journalism is a collective endeavor, supported by often invisible yet essential professions. This significant choice reflects a deliberate intention: to broaden recognition beyond the spotlight, to celebrate all those who have served the press with loyalty, dedication, and dignity.

Iconic figures, a shared commitment

From public service to private press, from audiovisual to print media, the honored profiles embody the excellence and diversity of Senegalese journalism. From icons like Pathé Fall Dièye, living memory of national audiovisual, to Dr. Amadou Fall, historian and builder of the daily newspaper Le Soleil, via Abdoulaye Sakou Faye, the man of March 19, 2000, or Awa Thiao, affectionately nicknamed the mother of reporters, each journey tells a facet of the profession.

These men and women share a common ethical rigor, a profound sense of public service, and a remarkable ability to communicate. They remind us that journalism is not limited to informing, but also involves explaining, enlightening, calming, and sometimes resisting.

A bridge between generations

One of the central messages of this edition is clear: the evolution of journalism is inevitable, but it must not happen against the established order, nor without the younger generation. The Sargal national de la presse (National Press Conference) thus aimed to be a space for genuine dialogue, where experiences intersect, perspectives are compared, and lessons are shared.

At a time when public trust is severely tested, this intergenerational meeting appears essential. It serves as a reminder that the fundamentals of the profession—verification, cross-checking, responsibility, and ethics—remain unchanged, regardless of the tools or media used.

Sargal, a commitment to the future

More than a tribute, the 2025 National Press Conference is a call to action. A call to responsibility, remembrance, and humility. By honoring the past without excessive nostalgia and questioning the future without complacency, the Convention of Young Reporters of Senegal reaffirms a clear ambition: to contribute to a more credible, more responsible journalism that is closer to the citizens.

In a media ecosystem undergoing profound transformation, Sargal reminds us of a fundamental truth: Senegalese journalism has a history, values, and women and men who deserve recognition. It is by building upon this heritage that the profession will be able to meet the challenges of tomorrow.