On Saturday, July 4, 2026, the UNESCO Office in Mali proudly joined the 16th Inter-Lycées Excellence Competition awards ceremony, hosted at the École Nationale d’Ingénieurs Abderhamane Baba Touré (ENI-ABT). This participation came at the invitation of the ENI-ABT UNESCO Club, bringing together a diverse group of students, university learners, educators, academic administrators, and key partners. The collective aim was to invigorate and promote a culture of scientific excellence and innovation among the dynamic youth of Mali, a vital mission for the future of West Africa.

During the opening remarks, Dr. Kélétigui DAOU, the Director-General of ENI-ABT, extended profound gratitude to UNESCO for its involvement in this crucial initiative. He underscored the organization’s unwavering commitment to advancing education across Mali. Dr. DAOU specifically highlighted UNESCO’s significant efforts in encouraging girls to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines, alongside its broader promotion of scientific research and innovation among young people.

The ceremony also featured an address from the Secretary-General of the ENI-ABT UNESCO Club. She emphasized the profound significance of this 16th edition in recognizing and celebrating academic merit and excellence. Furthermore, her speech highlighted the pivotal role that UNESCO Clubs play in nurturing fundamental values such as good citizenship, peace, and sustainable development within communities throughout Mali and the wider Sahel region.

Mme Oumou Dicko, UNESCO’s Science Programs Officer, offered her sincere congratulations to both the organizers for the successful execution of this year’s event and to the dedicated students for their consistent engagement. She outlined various invaluable opportunities UNESCO provides to young individuals in the realm of research, including prestigious scholarships, mentorship programs, and active participation in the numerous international days observed by the Organization. Mme Dicko strongly encouraged all students and young scholars to deepen their involvement in scientific and innovative fields, emphasizing that their contributions are essential for the ongoing development and prosperity of their nation.