Togo and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) are deepening their collaborative efforts in the realm of higher education. Gado Tchangbedji, the Minister of Higher Education and Research, convened a working session in Lomé on Tuesday, July 14, with a delegation from the financial institution. The meeting focused on the Project to Support the Implementation of Higher Education Reform in Sciences and Engineering (Paresi).

Discussions during the session aimed to assess the current status of this pivotal program, which is designed to elevate the quality of university education and bolster research capabilities within scientific and technical fields. Both parties meticulously reviewed the achievements made, the challenges encountered, and the necessary measures to expedite the planned activities.

On this occasion, Minister Tchangbedji acknowledged the significant strides already taken, while simultaneously urging for greater speed in processing administrative and technical procedures. This proactive approach is crucial to ensure that the scheduled infrastructure projects are completed within the designated timelines.

Key components of the Paresi project include the construction of versatile research laboratories at the Universities of Lomé and Kara, alongside the establishment of a dedicated pedagogical laboratory at the École normale supérieure d’Atakpamé. These vital facilities are expected to considerably enhance learning, research, and innovation environments across public higher education institutions.

Jointly financed by the Togolese State and the Islamic Development Bank, the Paresi initiative underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing Togolese universities and aligning them with the demands of economic development. The project specifically seeks to upgrade educational equipment, improve university infrastructure, and cultivate expertise in the critical domains of science and engineering.

Beyond tangible investments, the program also places strong emphasis 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 strategic partnership, Togo aims to fortify its human capital and amplify the contribution of its higher education sector to the structural transformation of the national economy.