The world is changing at lightning speed. Japan and China, two economic giants, understand this well, investing in innovative technologies and adopting bold strategies to fuel their future. Meanwhile, in Senegal, a generation seems trapped in inertia, too often distracted by the useless, instead of focusing on what could propel them to the top. If that's not a red flag, it sure sounds like one.
Japan: A Nation on the Move, Literally
Imagine a Tokyo subway, among the busiest in the world, where every passenger step generates electricity. No, it's not science fiction. This is the reality thanks to piezoelectric technology, which transforms the energy of footsteps into electricity to power surrounding stations and infrastructure. But that's not all: Japanese highways, with vehicles traveling at 160 km/h, capture the energy of vibrations to generate electricity. Even the Shibuya intersection, symbolizing the excitement of Tokyo, is a mine of energy. In Japan, every moment is an opportunity to produce, to innovate, to transform energy into progress.
China: An impressive economic rise
From 2000 to 2020, China saw its GDP per capita increase by 78%, a staggering growth according to the World Bank. Foreign investments are pouring in, non-national companies are establishing themselves massively, and the opportunities are legion. It is no coincidence that this country has become the second largest economy in the world. China has seized every opportunity to escape poverty and establish itself on the international scene. This is not just thanks to its massive population, but a mentality focused on productivity and innovation. The key? A people determined to maximize their resources and not be distracted by the unnecessary.
Senegal: Wasted potential?
And Senegal, in all this? While other nations make effective use of every step, every vibration, every slightest movement to fuel their economy, young Senegalese sometimes seem locked into habits of consumption, distraction and procrastination. The internet, while a powerful tool for education and entrepreneurship, often becomes a trap, distracting young people instead of inspiring them to action. How many young people spend hours on social media, or aimlessly watching videos, while the world around them evolves at dizzying speed?
This is a serious time. Senegal, rich in its talents and its dynamic youth, must face a major challenge: leaving the comfort zone. The country must rethink its relationship to innovation and productivity. Young people must understand that the future does not wait. Opportunities exist, but they only come to those who are willing to fight, stand up and work tirelessly.
It is time for young Senegalese to wake up. The world will not wait for them. If Japan and China can transform every aspect of their lives into a source of progress, why can't Senegal do the same? The question is not whether changes can be made, but whether the will to act is there. Young people in Senegal have everything it takes to succeed: creativity, passion and a thirst for learning. What is needed now is the determination to turn these resources into tangible success.
