How can Togo’s higher education better align with the nation’s pressing needs? That was the central question as leaders of the country’s UNESCO university chairs convened in Lomé on July 9, 2026. Organized under the authority of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the gathering provided a platform to assess ongoing initiatives and chart a new strategic path to amplify the impact of academic research on national development.
Reimagining university collaboration for national progress
Bridging academia and national priorities through joint action
Under the leadership of Prof. Gado Tchangbedji, Minister Delegate for Higher Education and Scientific Research, the meeting brought together representatives from the Togolese National Commission for UNESCO and heads of all public university UNESCO chairs. The session served as a forum to evaluate the contributions of these academic structures, share best practices, and identify opportunities for enhanced collaboration.
The chairs represented included the UNESCO Chair on Renewable Energies at the University of Lomé, the UNESCO Chair on Women, Science and Sustainable Water Management in West Africa also at the University of Lomé, and the UNESCO Chair on ICT and Higher Education Development in West Africa based at the University of Kara.
Transforming research into actionable solutions
From theory to tangible outcomes
Participants reviewed the mandates, achievements, and challenges of each chair, emphasizing their role in shaping public policy. The overarching goal is to position these academic hubs as key drivers in addressing Togo’s most critical challenges—such as the energy transition, sustainable water resource management, gender equality, and the digital transformation of higher education.
Forge stronger alliances for research excellence
The discussions yielded actionable recommendations to strengthen the network’s effectiveness. Among the proposals was the creation of a shared digital platform connecting the Togolese National Commission for UNESCO with all university chairs. This initiative aims to streamline experience-sharing, coordinate joint projects, and foster stronger institutional partnerships. Additionally, delegates called for deeper collaboration between academic institutions and the introduction of new technical and financial partners to support research initiatives.
Research must serve national development goals
Closing the session, Prof. Gado Tchangbedji underscored the need for research to deliver concrete results that align with Togo’s development priorities. He stressed that scientific output must directly inform public policy and contribute to economic and social transformation. The minister also highlighted the importance of deepening collaboration among researchers, universities, and national institutions to elevate the national higher education system.
Building a stronger, more influential scientific ecosystem
This meeting reflects the government’s commitment to harnessing the expertise within public universities. By strengthening ties among UNESCO chairs, expanding partnerships, and aligning research more closely with national needs, Togo is poised to enhance its scientific ecosystem and amplify the role of higher education in sustainable development. The gathering signals the beginning of a more structured cooperation among academic stakeholders, with the vision of positioning research as a catalyst for innovation and growth across the country.
