Ministers of Education from ECOWAS member states have been urged to champion innovation and youth entrepreneurship across the West African sub-region.
This call was part of the key recommendations from the African Forum for Research and Innovation (FARI 2025), held in Cotonou, Benin.
Led by Professor Saliou Touré, former Minister of Education of Côte d’Ivoire, the Scientific Committee presented proposals aimed at enhancing future editions of the forum and strengthening the region’s innovation ecosystem.
The forum emphasized the vital role of science, technology, and innovation, with a particular focus on the contributions of young Africans.
Member states were encouraged to boost entrepreneurial skills among youth in emerging sectors, improve access to finance through existing mechanisms, and develop targeted programmes for women and young people with disabilities to ensure inclusive participation in innovation and entrepreneurship.
