Launch of ECOTEDD Master’s in Côte d’Ivoire: training for sustainable development leaders

INP-HB and CEA VALOPRO inaugurate a groundbreaking Master’s program in sustainable development

In a move to advance sustainable development in Africa, the Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INP-HB) through its Centre d’Excellence Africain en Valorisation des Produits et Résidus (CEA VALOPRO) officially launched the Master’s program in Circular Economy, Ecological Transition, and Sustainable Development (ECOTEDD) during an inaugural seminar held in Angré on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

A vision for Africa’s sustainable future

The inaugural seminar, themed ‘Sustainable Africa, Resilient Côte d’Ivoire: CSR and Circular Economy as Drivers of a New Development Model’, brought together national and international experts, policymakers, private sector leaders, and technical partners. Discussions centered on the urgent need for ecological transition and economic model transformation across the continent, with a focus on Côte d’Ivoire’s unique challenges and opportunities.

The program’s coordinator, Professor Benjamin Yao, emphasized the strategic importance of ECOTEDD in equipping future leaders with actionable knowledge. “This initiative delivers high-value insights and bridges the gap between media, experts, and the public by simplifying environmental challenges,” he explained. His remarks set the stage for a dialogue on waste management, deforestation, energy transition, and the hurdles in securing climate financing.

Circular economy: a tailored solution for Africa

Professor Yao championed the circular economy as a viable model for Africa’s growth, stating, “Circular economy preserves value—what we now call waste can become a resource tomorrow.” He highlighted practical applications in agricultural sectors, particularly in cashew and cocoa value chains, where byproducts can be repurposed to generate additional revenue.

He cautioned against adopting Western models wholesale, advocating instead for context-specific solutions: “Africa must design its own sustainable pathways—simple, effective, and locally relevant.”

Rethinking corporate responsibility and climate finance

Panels also examined the slow integration of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into business strategies. While CSR is increasingly a criterion for public procurement, many organizations still treat it as mere public relations. Experts urged companies to embed CSR into core governance for real impact.

On climate financing, speakers noted a critical paradox: despite abundant resources, funds remain underutilized due to cumbersome and technical procedures. “We need skilled local professionals who can navigate international standards to unlock these funds,” they stressed.

Students pledge to drive change

Abraham Bosson, spokesperson for the first cohort of ECOTEDD students, underscored the generation’s commitment to sustainable development. “We envision an Africa that innovates, leverages local resources, and builds resilience through sustainable models,” he stated. Highlighting the urgency of their role, he added, “Our generation holds a historic responsibility—to become catalysts for innovation and champion sustainable projects in our nations.”

Bosson clarified that ECOTEDD extends beyond academia: “Our goal isn’t just learning—it’s driving tangible impact in businesses, institutions, and communities.”

A two-year program with a professional edge

The highly selective, online-accessible program spans two years and aims to cultivate expertise in waste valorization, CSR, climate finance, and project development. With a strong practical focus, it seeks to produce professionals capable of addressing Côte d’Ivoire’s and Africa’s sustainability challenges.

INP-HB’s initiative aligns with a broader mission: fostering a skilled workforce to tackle sustainable development challenges across the continent. Organizers anticipate announcing the next call for applications in the coming weeks, aiming to expand this transformative initiative.