Circumcision in many West African societies is a rite of passage that is part of the life cycle that marks the beginning of adulthood. Boys and girls are circumcised separately in groups between the ages of 8 - 12, although some participate in the practice at even an earlier age.
Circumcision of girls is still practiced among the Mandinkas, Fulas and Jolas, but not among some Wolofs.
Children would traditionally spend several months in the bush with a special guardian for general training after the operation.
During their healing period in the bush, they are taught about their adult social responsibilities and rules of behavior.

While boys wear distinctive white robes with a triangular hood, girls wear a special dress adorned with strings of beads.

Great preparation is made in the village for the returning children. Parents make beautiful clothes and decorations for the new initiates to wear for several days after their return.
The ceremonies associated with initiation are marked by much feasting, socializing, and special dancing with masquerades, e.g., “kankurangs” (this is a masked figure that appears during important ceremonies).

Today most people in the urban areas take their children to the hospital or clinic for the actual operation and the bush school lasts for a shorter period.