• The government approved the construction of five science high schools and one teacher training college (ENS) across the country.
• Architectural and technical studies are complete, and Benin will soon select a qualified company to execute the works.
• The initiative aligns with Benin’s broader reforms to modernize education and develop science, technology, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.

Benin’s government is accelerating its education reform agenda by investing in new scientific and teacher training infrastructure. The move follows a $12.5 million plan launched earlier this year to upgrade several public universities.

The Council of Ministers, chaired by President Patrice Talon on October 22, approved the construction of five science-focused high schools and a new École Normale Supérieure (ENS). According to the government’s secretary general, all architectural and technical studies are complete, allowing the selection of a qualified contractor to begin the work.

The five science high schools will be located in Abomey-Calavi, Parakou, Lokossa, Abomey, and Natitingou. The ENS will be based in Abomey-Calavi.

While detailed implementation procedures remain under review, the official communiqué said relevant ministries will ensure proper execution in line with technical specifications. The schools will include modern science facilities and digital teaching equipment to strengthen scientific education.

The ENS aims to train future teachers in science and technical fields to sustain the long-term quality of instruction.

These new infrastructures extend Benin’s ongoing reforms in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The reforms target the modernization of the education system and the promotion of STEM disciplines as key drivers of national development.

The government said the new institutions will help train a scientific elite capable of meeting national development needs and advancing economic and technological growth.

The initiative comes as Benin seeks to strengthen its educational base to support economic transformation and innovation. The Council of Ministers emphasized that this project is part of the national strategy to build scientific and technical competencies and improve the quality of both secondary and higher education.

This article was initially published in French by Félicien Houindo Lokossou

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum