On September 29, 2026, in Bol, Chad, the President of the University of Lake Chad (UNILAT), Professor Dadoum Djeko Magloire, outlined the institution's strategy at a press conference. The goal is to leverage the Lake Chad basin's resources to drive development and foster entrepreneurs rather than merely producing candidates for the public sector. The press conference was held at the university's temporary facilities, where the leadership team, including vice-presidents, deans, and the academic registrar, was present.
Established by decree No. 1416 on July 17, 2025, the University of Lake Chad was created through a joint effort by local and national authorities to establish a university hub in a geopolitically and ecologically sensitive region. The Lake Chad basin, shared by several African nations, is rich in natural resources, including water, fisheries, and agricultural products, primarily due to alluvial deposits. According to the president, the university's creation addresses the need to study and sustainably exploit these resources.
The university aims to stem the brain drain of local youth to neighboring countries, such as Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger, by offering a comprehensive and nearby university education. To ensure a successful start, UNILAT relies on two strategic faculties. The Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Water offers programs in forestry, hydro-agricultural development, agricultural engineering, and surface water resource management. The goal is to train specialists who can contribute to food security and address climate change challenges.
The Faculty of Administration and Business Management complements the scientific training by providing students with essential management skills. The president emphasized the concept of employability, aiming to produce graduates who are not just seeking public sector jobs but are actual entrepreneurs and autonomous managers. The leadership team also highlighted the importance of female representation at the university, noting that only 28 female students were enrolled in the first intake.
The university's leadership encouraged young girls and their parents to overcome cultural prejudices and seize the opportunities offered by higher education. The president reminded the audience that the government measure guaranteeing free registration for girls in public universities remains in effect. Addressing concerns about student transportation, which had sparked reactions on social media, the president confirmed that the issue had been submitted to the National Center for University Works.
The president expressed confidence that the problem would be resolved, with buses from N'Djamena expected to be made available to UNILAT to facilitate student transportation. The university's permanent campus is currently under construction outside Bol, making mobility a crucial issue. By focusing on employability and entrepreneurship, the University of Lake Chad aims to make a positive impact on the region's development.
The University of Lake Chad's strategic focus on employability and entrepreneurship aligns with the Chadian government's efforts to promote sustainable development and reduce youth unemployment. As the institution continues to grow and develop, it is expected to play a vital role in shaping the country's future by providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the workforce.
Key points
- University of Lake Chad focuses on employability and entrepreneurship to drive regional development
- Institution aims to stem brain drain and provide local youth with comprehensive university education
- University's strategy includes two strategic faculties and emphasis on female representation
