The Côte d'Ivoire government has launched a project to train nearly 3,000 teachers, educational supervisors, and school administrators in the pedagogical use of artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative, led by Minister Delegate for Technical Education Jean-Louis Moulot, aims to enhance the integration of AI in the country's technical education and vocational training system. The project, supported by the UNESCO, will begin with 1,000 teachers from Abidjan's schools.
The program's first phase, set to run from October 1 to December 30, 2026, will combine online training on digital platforms and in-person sessions with UNESCO experts. Initially designed for 1,000 participants, the pilot phase has already garnered significant interest, with nearly 2,000 teachers registered at the launch. This phase will test the content, teaching methods, and support systems before expanding to other beneficiaries.
The program seeks to equip technical education and vocational training personnel with the necessary skills to integrate AI tools into their teaching practices. The modules will cover AI fundamentals, its application in teaching and learning, educational engineering, assessment of acquired skills, technical disciplines, and practical work. Special attention will be given to ethics and data security.
Minister Jean-Louis Moulot emphasized that this initiative will help adapt teaching practices to technological transformations and new job market requirements. He stated that the project opens a new chapter in their efforts to update teaching methods and better prepare students for the skills needed in the future economy.
UNESCO representative in Côte d'Ivoire, Mame Omar Diop, highlighted the potential of AI in education, citing its ability to assist teachers in preparing lessons, designing exercises, and facilitating evaluation tasks. However, he stressed the central role of teachers and the importance of human interaction in the learning process.
The project aligns with Côte d'Ivoire's policy of digitalizing technical education and vocational training. The authorities aim to enhance the digital skills of education personnel, encourage pedagogical innovation, and better adapt training to professional world changes. The program benefits from UNESCO's support within the framework of cooperation between Côte d'Ivoire and UNESCO on AI and responsible governance.
The initiative will be gradually expanded to reach the target of 3,000 beneficiaries by 2027. After the Abidjan pilot phase, the program will be rolled out to other regions, ultimately enhancing the quality of education in Côte d'Ivoire.
Key points
- The project aims to train 3,000 teachers in AI integration by 2027.
- The program is supported by UNESCO and aligns with Côte d'Ivoire's digitalization policy.
- The initiative seeks to adapt teaching practices to technological transformations and new job market requirements.
