Benin vision 2060: national education council prioritises stem and vocational training
From August 5 to 7, 2026, the National Education Council (CNE) of Benin will convene its third consultative assembly in Cotonou, focusing on strengthening scientific, technological, and vocational education pathways. The three-day gathering brings together government officials, academic leaders, public and private institutions, technical and financial partners, and civil society stakeholders to address priorities for the country’s education system.
Driving innovation through education and training
The assembly, held at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Cotonou, serves as a platform to align Benin’s education, research, and professional training sectors with the nation’s industrialization and digital transformation goals. Discussions will centre on strategies to guide students toward STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and vocational fields, ensuring the workforce is equipped for future economic demands.
Participants include CNE members, government representatives, university officials, public and private sector leaders, and civil society organizations. The event aims to foster collaborative exchanges, allowing diverse perspectives to shape public education policies that reflect the country’s long-term development vision.
Strengthening the education system for a sustainable future
In his opening remarks, Clément Chabi, Executive Secretary of the CNE, emphasized the council’s role as a national dialogue framework. He highlighted that sustainable development, economic prosperity, and technological sovereignty hinge on investing in youth, research, and human capital quality. By fostering a skilled workforce, Benin can drive innovation and meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy.
Noël Ahonangnon Gbaguidi, President of the CNE, underscored the council’s legal and strategic responsibilities. The CNE is tasked with shaping national education policies, coordinating the education system, and monitoring public policy implementation. Comprising 69 members from public and private sectors, the council reviews performance reports and operational accounts before issuing recommendations to enhance the education system’s efficiency and outcomes.
Shaping Benin’s future through strategic education policies
Over the three-day session, delegates will assess the progress of recommendations from previous assemblies, with a focus on improving teaching quality and aligning educational priorities with the Benin Vision 2060 roadmap. The CNE views the expansion of STEM and vocational training as critical to fostering innovation, supporting digital transformation, and meeting the needs of Benin’s growing industries.
While the assembly has outlined broad objectives, specific implementation strategies for the newly proposed recommendations are yet to be finalized. The outcomes of this consultative assembly are expected to provide a clearer roadmap for transforming Benin’s education sector in alignment with its long-term developmental goals.
