In a significant step towards strengthening education and research in Benin and the broader West Africa region, the Executive Assistant to the Executive Secretary (EAES), Dr. Sokona Dagnako, held a crucial meeting with the esteemed Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research (HESR), Prof Eléonore YAYI LADEKAN. The meeting served as a platform to discuss the establishment of the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) regional node for West Africa in Benin.
The primary focus of the meeting revolved around the establishment of the RUFORUM regional node for West Africa in Benin, approved by the Government of Benin during its Session of May 11, 2022. Deliberations were held on various aspects, including legal matters, political and diplomatic considerations, and administrative procedures required to set up the node effectively. To ensure comprehensive insights and input, technical and practical aspects were also discussed. The meeting also recorded the participation of the Minister’s Director of Cabinet and technical advisor, rectors, and vice-rectors from all universities in Benin, who were specially invited to attend the session.
The Honorable Minister expressed her gratitude to EAES for her dedication and efforts in advancing education and research in the region. She also entrusted EAES with the task of conveying her sincere salutations and messages of thanks to Prof Patrick Okori and Prof Adipala Ekwamu, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to academic and research endeavors.
The future prospects of establishing the RUFORUM regional node in Benin appear highly promising. Currently, an internal technical session is underway at the Ministry of HESR to conduct a final review of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for establishing the RUFORUM node covering the West Africa Region in Benin. RUFORUM plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capabilities of universities in agriculture, science, and technology across Africa. By establishing the West Africa regional node, the country and region is in a better position to become a hub of academic excellence and research collaboration. The node’s presence is expected to foster greater regional cooperation, attract research funding, and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise among institutions.
As Benin embarks on this journey towards establishing the RUFORUM regional node, it reiterates its commitment to nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and creating an enabling environment for academic growth. The unwavering support from Prof Patrick Okori, Prof Adipala, and the entire Secretariat, combined with the Minister’s endorsement, underscores the collective vision of advancing education and research for the betterment of society.
The RUFORUM Blog 
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