DAKAR, May 10 (Xinhua) -- Preparations for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Dakar have reached a critical phase as the International Olympic Committee (IOC)'s Coordination Commission concluded its seventh meeting on Friday, marking a key milestone in finalizing venue plans and legacy initiatives for Africa's first Olympic sporting event.

The hybrid two-day meeting, attended by newly appointed Coordination Commission Chair Humphrey Kayange, IOC president-elect Kirsty Coventry and vice-president Nawal El Moutawakel, focused on operational readiness and long-term benefits for Senegalese youth.

In a video address, IOC president Thomas Bach hailed the progress, stating, "Dakar 2026 will be a moment for Africa to shine on the global stage. Dakar 2026 will welcome young athletes from around the world to celebrate sport, culture and the legendary Senegalese spirit of Teranga."

A highlight of the meeting was the launch of the Dakar 2026 Learning Academy, which aims to train over 400 young professionals aged 21 to 35 in event management and operations.

The initiative, described as a "flagship legacy project," will equip participants with skills to support the Games' delivery while fostering long-term expertise across Senegal and Africa. According to the IOC, the first cohort of 41 trainees began their training in late April, with Coventry praising their role as "ambassadors for the young generation."

Significant progress was reported on venue construction, including the finalization of the road cycling route along Dakar's Corniche Ouest, a scenic coastal stretch that will serve as both a competition and a cultural hub.

"We are entering the final stretch," Kayange emphasized the urgency of the final 18-month countdown. "The momentum that's been built gives us confidence as we move forward towards delivering extraordinary Games for Africa."

Plans for the "Espace Let's Move" on the Corniche de Dakar were also unveiled. This festival-like zone will blend sports demonstrations, cultural activities and educational workshops, creating an inclusive atmosphere for families and youth. Additionally, the Dakar en Jeux Festival, scheduled from November 3 to 9 this year, will serve as a final pre-Games celebration of sport and Olympic values.

Dakar 2026 will run from October 31 to November 13, uniting the world's best young athletes under 17 years old across three host sites - Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly. ■