Table of Contents
A new university in Côte d’Ivoire is being challenged to become a key engine for economic and social progress. On Thursday, November 27, 2025, a leading academic called on the ICK International University of Bouaké to actively contribute to the nation’s growth, emphasizing the critical role of higher education in addressing societal needs.
A New Vision for Higher Education in Côte d’Ivoire
The call to action came during the inaugural conference marking the official launch of ICK University, centered around the theme of “Excellence and social responsibility: pillars of a university serving development.” A full professor of public law at Alassane Ouattara University (UAO) articulated a vision for Ivorian universities that extends beyond traditional academic pursuits.
“Ivorian universities must fully integrate their impact and their responsibilities towards society,” the professor stated. She argued that both academic excellence and social responsibility are essential components of modern higher education, shaping not only the curriculum but also the research and overall actions of institutions.
Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Community
The professor explained that embracing university social responsibility requires a fundamental shift in how educational programs and research projects are conceived. Institutions should proactively consider the interests of the broader community when defining their academic focus, directing their efforts toward addressing identified local needs.
This means moving away from a model where universities operate in isolation, producing knowledge solely for the academic sphere. Instead, she stressed the importance of continuous engagement with the surrounding environment, actively contributing to solutions for the challenges faced by local populations.
Aligning Education with Economic Realities
A key component of this societal integration, the professor emphasized, is ensuring that ICK University’s curriculum aligns with the demands of the job market. She urged the university to equip its graduates with the skills sought by companies and organizations, particularly within the Gbêkê region, where the university is located.
“The training provided must enable graduates to be in line with the skills sought by companies and organizations,” she said. Further analysis of regional socio-economic needs is crucial, she added, to effectively tailor training programs and research initiatives. A chart illustrating the current skills gap in the Gbêkê region would be beneficial here.
A Lever for National Progress
Ultimately, the professor believes that by embracing this proactive and socially conscious approach, ICK University can fulfill its potential as a powerful catalyst for economic, social, environmental, and cultural development in Côte d’Ivoire. This positioning, she concluded, is in direct alignment with the broader missions assigned to universities throughout the country.
