Togo and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) are strengthening their collaborative efforts in the realm of higher education. Gado Tchangbedji, the Minister of Higher Education and Research, hosted an IsDB delegation in Lomé on Tuesday, July 14, for a working session focused on the Project to Support the Implementation of Higher Education Reform in Sciences and Engineering (Paresi).

During the discussions, participants assessed the progress of this strategic initiative. Paresi is designed to elevate the quality of university education and enhance research capabilities within scientific and technical disciplines. Both parties thoroughly reviewed achievements to date, identified challenges encountered, and outlined necessary measures to accelerate the execution of planned activities.

The Minister commended the significant strides already made, while simultaneously urging greater swiftness in processing administrative and technical procedures. This emphasis aims to ensure the timely completion of crucial infrastructure projects.

Key components of the Paresi project include the construction of advanced multidisciplinary research laboratories at the Universities of Lomé and Kara. Additionally, a new pedagogical laboratory is being established at the École normale supérieure d’Atakpamé. These vital facilities are expected to considerably improve learning, research, and innovation conditions across Togo’s public higher education institutions.

Jointly financed by the Togolese state and the Islamic Development Bank, Paresi aligns with the government’s commitment to modernize Togolese universities and equip them to meet the demands of economic development. The project specifically seeks to bolster educational equipment, upgrade university infrastructure, and cultivate expertise in the critical fields of science and engineering.

Beyond material investments, the program also places substantial importance on fostering academic excellence. As part of this commitment, scholarships were awarded last year to Master’s and PhD students enrolled at the Universities of Lomé and Kara.

Through this robust partnership, Togo aims to solidify its human capital and amplify the contribution of its higher education sector to the structural transformation of the national economy.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst