In a significant development for Mali's education sector, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Professor Bourema Kansaye, has initiated the construction of a new university residence at the IPR/IFRA de Katibougou. This project, valued at 1.642 billion FCFA, is fully funded by the national budget and aims to address the accommodation deficit at the institution. The ceremony marking the beginning of the project took place on September 25, 2026, in the presence of several high-ranking officials.
The new residence, which will be built by the company KOROBARA ET ASSOCIÉS (EKA) SARL, is expected to be completed within 22 months. The project comprises two lots: the first involves the construction of two blocks of dormitories with two floors, costing 1.412 billion FCFA, while the second focuses on the construction of a reception block and courtyard renovation, valued at 229.7 million FCFA. This development is crucial for the IPR/IFRA, which currently hosts around 4,000 students but only has 1,384 available accommodation places.
The launch of this project is part of Mali's efforts to improve the living and studying conditions of its students. According to the Director General of the Centre National de l'Enseignement Universitaire (CENOU), the new residence will significantly reduce the accommodation deficit at the institution. He emphasized that the project reflects the government's commitment to enhancing the educational experience and noted that every additional accommodation place translates into better study conditions for students and reassurance for their families.
The Director General of CENOU also highlighted the importance of modernizing services to support students. Following the 100% digitalization of rental payments for the existing 1,384 places, the CENOU will progressively digitalize the process of requesting accommodation to minimize the need for students to travel to Koulikoro for simple requests. This move aims to streamline administrative processes and improve the overall student experience.
For Minister Bourema Kansaye, this project embodies the vision of Mali's highest authorities, who have designated 2026 as the Year of Education and Culture. He stressed that education is fundamental to building a sovereign, resilient Mali capable of taking charge of its own destiny. The Minister also underscored the strategic importance of the IPR/IFRA, which has been a cornerstone of the country's agricultural development since its establishment in 1897.
The IPR/IFRA plays a pivotal role in Mali's agricultural sector, and the Minister emphasized the need for well-trained professionals who can innovate and drive the transformation of the country's agriculture. He encouraged students to take advantage of the new facilities while also fulfilling their responsibilities, including working hard, respecting infrastructure, and maintaining discipline.
The construction of the 528-place university residence at the IPR/IFRA de Katibougou represents a significant investment in Mali's youth and its future. The project is expected to not only alleviate the accommodation shortage but also contribute to the overall development of the education sector. As the country continues to prioritize education and culture, initiatives like this underscore the government's commitment to fostering a more educated and skilled population.
Key points
- The project is fully funded by the national budget at a cost of 1.642 billion FCFA.
- The new residence will add 528 places to the current 1,384 available accommodation places at the IPR/IFRA.
- The project is expected to be completed within 22 months by the company KOROBARA ET ASSOCIÉS (EKA) SARL.
