The INP-HB, in collaboration with the CEA VALOPRO, officially inaugurated its Master’s program in Circular Economy, Ecological Transition, and Sustainable Development (ECOTEDD). This significant launch took place during an inaugural seminar held in Angré on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
The gathering, themed « Sustainable Africa, Resilient Côte d’Ivoire: CSR and Circular Economy as Levers for a New Development Model », brought together a diverse group. National and international experts, public sector decision-makers, private industry leaders, and technical partners converged to discuss critical issues concerning ecological transition and the evolution of economic paradigms across Africa.
Professor Benjamin Yao, coordinator of the CEA VALOPRO, set the tone early in the proceedings. He underscored the strategic importance of this initiative, emphasizing its dual aim: to deliver « highly informative content » and to enhance media access to leading experts, thereby promoting broader public understanding of environmental challenges.
Across various panel discussions, speakers provided a comprehensive overview of the continent’s pressing environmental challenges. These included crucial topics such as effective waste management, combating deforestation, navigating the energy transition, and addressing the persistent difficulties in accessing climate financing.
Professor Benjamin Yao articulated his view that the circular economy presents a tailored solution for African realities. « The circular economy fundamentally conserves value. What we label as waste today holds the potential to become wealth tomorrow, » he stated. He further elaborated on this concept, providing tangible examples of value creation from agricultural products, specifically highlighting the cashew and cocoa sectors.
When addressing development models, Professor Yao strongly advocated for a contextualized approach. He asserted, « We must not simply replicate Western models. Instead, we need to cultivate solutions that are uniquely suited to our African realities – solutions that are simple, effective, and inherently sustainable. »
Discussions also brought to light the current limitations surrounding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), noting its insufficient integration into organizational strategies. Several panelists underscored a significant shift, observing, « CSR is increasingly becoming a prerequisite for accessing public contracts. » They urged businesses to move beyond mere public relations and genuinely embed these principles within their core governance structures.
Regarding climate financing, experts identified a notable paradox: substantial resources are available, yet they remain challenging to mobilize. « While the funds exist, the application procedures are often cumbersome and highly technical, » they explained. « It is therefore crucial to develop local expertise capable of preparing project proposals that meet stringent international standards. »
Speaking on behalf of the students, Abraham Bosson, delegate for the inaugural cohort, conveyed his class’s strong commitment to actively participate in transforming development models. « We believe in an Africa that can innovate, leverage its local resources, and construct sustainable development tailored to its unique circumstances, » he affirmed. Emphasizing the responsibility of his generation, he further stated, « We bear a historical responsibility: to become agents of change, capable of championing innovative and sustainable projects that serve our nations. »
With a decidedly action-oriented perspective, Bosson clarified that the ECOTEDD Master’s program extends far beyond a traditional academic framework. « The objective is not merely to acquire knowledge, » he explained, « but to make a tangible impact on our businesses, our institutions, and our communities. »
This highly selective, two-year online program aims to cultivate a new generation of specialists. Its curriculum focuses on waste valorization, Corporate Social Responsibility, climate finance, and environmental project development, all delivered with a strong practical and professional orientation.
Through this pioneering initiative, the INP-HB seeks to foster the development of qualified human capital. These future professionals will be equipped to effectively address the crucial challenges of sustainable development across Côte d’Ivoire and the broader African continent.
Organizers anticipate announcing the next call for applications in the coming weeks. This upcoming intake is set to further strengthen the momentum towards fostering a more circular, inclusive, and resilient economy.
