Mali’s delegation engages at global higher education summit in China
On June 6, 2026, a high-level delegation from Mali took part in the World Summit on the Future of Higher Education held at the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) in Shenzhen, China. The Malian team was led by Dr. Mamadou Koumaré, Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Management of Bamako and Coordinator of the UNESCO International Centre for Higher Education Innovation (ICHEI) partnership with Malian higher education institutions.
The summit brought together educators, policymakers, international organizations, university leaders, and tech industry representatives to explore new models for connecting higher education with emerging technologies.
Key discussions focus on AI-driven education transformation
The summit emphasized reimagining the relationship between higher education and the tech industry, particularly through the lens of artificial intelligence. Discussions centered on three major priorities:
- Innovative training programs integrating AI to enhance skills in sectors such as agriculture, trade, education, and natural sciences;
- Showcasing successful AI-driven educational initiatives to inspire broader adoption across Africa;
- Strengthening the International Institute of Online Education (IIOE) network by releasing a global report and fostering partnerships.
The Malian delegation played a central role in these conversations, as the country’s universities are already engaged in AI-focused collaborations with UNESCO-ICHEI.
Mali leads AI education partnerships in West Africa
Three Malian institutions have formalized partnerships with UNESCO-ICHEI to advance digital and AI integration in higher education:
- University of Kurukanfuga, Bamako;
- University of Social Sciences and Management of Bamako;
- Institute of University Pedagogy.
These agreements are part of a broader strategy to modernize curricula, expand access to lifelong learning, and align academic programs with labor market demands. Dr. Koumaré oversees the IIOE, which serves as a regional hub for these efforts.
UNESCO reaffirms commitment to Malian higher education
The United Nations agency has pledged continued support to Mali’s higher education sector, focusing on:
- Strengthening human and technical capacities;
- Promoting AI literacy and digital skills;
- Fostering international academic partnerships.
The summit concluded with a call for greater collaboration between universities and tech companies to build a sustainable ecosystem that prepares students for the future of work.
