This article discusses a practice that generates surprise and even rejection among educational, health and social services professionals working with immigrant populations. This is the custom among some Senegalese and Gambian communities, specifically Soninkés, of sending their children back to their original countries to be educated there in accordance with the traditions of their ancestors, after a few years of schooling in the countries where the parents reside. The custom still exists, though its frequency is decreasing. The author seeks to provide an explanation of this behaviour and discussed educational ideas and experiences inside the framework of Soninké culture.

Immigrants, Soninké Educational attitudes

education cultural anthropology teacher immigrant Review social worker Gambia health practitioner Senegal attitude