At the invitation of the UNESCO Club of the École Nationale d’Ingénieurs Abderhamane Baba Touré (ENI-ABT), the UNESCO Office in Mali actively participated on Saturday, July 4, 2026, in the awards ceremony for the 16^th edition of the Inter-Lycée Excellence Competition, held at ENI-ABT. This significant gathering united students, university attendees, instructors, academic administrators, and various partners, all committed to nurturing excellence among young Malians in the critical fields of science and innovation.

During his welcoming remarks, Dr. Kélétigui DAOU, the Director General of ENI-ABT, extended his gratitude to UNESCO for its involvement in this initiative. He also lauded the Organization’s consistent efforts to advance educational opportunities throughout Mali. Dr. DAOU specifically highlighted UNESCO’s impactful programs aimed at broadening girls’ access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, as well as its dedication to promoting scientific research and fostering innovation among the nation’s youth.

The ceremony further featured an address from the Secretary General of the ENI-ABT UNESCO Club, who underscored the profound importance of this 16^th edition in recognizing merit and academic achievement. She also emphasized the pivotal role UNESCO Clubs play in instilling values of citizenship, peace, and sustainable development within communities.

Ms. Oumou Dicko, the Science Programs Officer, offered her congratulations to both the organizers for the successful execution of this year’s event and to the students for their unwavering dedication. She outlined several valuable opportunities UNESCO provides to young individuals in research, including scholarships, mentorship programs, and avenues for participation in various international observances championed by the Organization. Ms. Dicko strongly encouraged students to deepen their engagement in science and innovation-focused disciplines, thereby contributing meaningfully to their country’s progress and development.