The Uoni association organized its 4th edition of interdisciplinary meetings at the University of Rouen in France on October 28-29. The event brought together several university professors, including former French Minister of Higher Education and Research Frédérique Vidal, as well as researchers from Comoros and abroad. The conference aimed to strengthen ties between researchers, students, university institutions, and diasporas.
The conference covered various topics, including mental health during doctoral studies, challenges faced by foreign students, particularly Comorians, in France, self-confidence, and the possibilities offered by data science and artificial intelligence. The president of Uoni, Professor Amir Aboubacar, stated that the association aims to promote exchanges of experiences and create bridges between academic and professional environments.
This year's edition took on a new dimension with the opening to other diasporas, aiming to foster new cooperations in research, training, and innovation. Professor Amir Aboubacar emphasized the importance of strengthening exchanges around research, health, and training. The University of Rouen Normandie hosted the event, providing necessary means to organize it.
The conference included roundtable discussions and presentations by academics and professionals. Topics discussed included metabolic obesity, identity and alterity questions in collective beliefs, and the potential of marine algae in Comoros. The diversity of subjects reflects Uoni's willingness to dialogue between disciplines and highlight research that can contribute to the country's development.
The event also addressed the issue of excellence scholarships offered by the Adab Foundation to Comorian laureates. Three scholarships were awarded, and the beneficiaries will join the National Institute of Applied Sciences (Insa) in Rennes for the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative aims to support young Comorian talents and promote academic excellence.
Professor Amir Aboubacar mentioned potential collaborations with the Insa, aiming to explore possibilities of supporting meritorious students towards top schools and facilitating access to cutting-edge training beneficial to Comoros. The Uoni association seeks to put competencies and knowledge at the service of youth.
The conference demonstrated the Comorian diaspora's commitment to contributing to the country's development through research, training, and innovation. The event provided a platform for exchanging ideas and experiences, promoting cooperation, and strengthening ties between researchers, students, and institutions.
Key points
- The conference covered various topics, including mental health, challenges faced by foreign students, and the possibilities offered by data science and artificial intelligence.
- The event aimed to foster new cooperations in research, training, and innovation between Comorian and international researchers.
- The Adab Foundation offered three excellence scholarships to Comorian laureates, who will join the National Institute of Applied Sciences in Rennes.
