The second edition of Mali's University Entrance Fair has kicked off in Bamako, bringing together public and private universities, research centers, and technical and financial partners. The event, themed "Higher Education and the Vision for Mali Kura by 2063," aims to inform and guide prospective students while showcasing the potential of various institutions. Organized by a mixed commission of public and private sector representatives, the fair features exhibitions, thematic panels, and dedicated spaces for young entrepreneurs.
The fair was opened by Mali's Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Pr Bouréma Kansaye, in the presence of his counterpart from the Ministry of National Education, Dr Amadou Sy Savané, and the interim representative of UNESCO in Mali, Aly Mohamed Sinane. The minister emphasized that the event is an act of faith in the country's future, aiming to transform the education system in line with President Assimi Goïta's vision.
UNESCO's representative, Aly Mohamed Sinane, praised the initiative, which aligns with the organization's goals for education and culture. He highlighted four key areas: quality, equity, innovation, and mobility, and encouraged Malian authorities to ratify the revised Addis Abeba Convention and the global Convention on the recognition of qualifications.
The fair provides an opportunity for students and their families to explore various educational options, with over 108 stands set up for institutions, start-ups, and incubators. The event is expected to attract a large number of visitors, particularly new high school graduates.
Minister Kansaye called on education stakeholders to move beyond traditional diploma issuance and focus on equipping students with practical skills and a strong sense of civic engagement. He urged them to build an "école du Mali Kura" model based on excellence, merit, responsibility, ethics, and culture.
The fair also features a variety of activities, including exhibitions, thematic panels, debates, and dedicated spaces for young entrepreneurs. According to the Director General of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Pr Fana Tangara, the event aims to promote partnerships and networking opportunities.
The University Entrance Fair will run for three days at the Bamako Exhibition Park, providing a strategic platform for shaping the future of Mali's university system. The event is seen as a crucial step towards achieving a transformation of the education sector.
Key points
- The fair aims to inform and guide prospective students while showcasing the potential of various institutions.
- The event aligns with UNESCO's goals for education and culture, focusing on quality, equity, innovation, and mobility.
- The fair features over 108 stands for institutions, start-ups, and incubators, offering a range of educational options.
