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USJ Advances Its Academic Mission in Côte d’Ivoire
During a five-day visit to Côte d’Ivoire, USJ leaders strengthened academic and institutional partnerships, met with students and key partners, and advanced plans for USJ-CI’s future development.
Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Saint Joseph University–Côte d’Ivoire (USJ-CI) during an official visit to Abidjan from May 11 to 15, 2026. Combining high-level discussions, academic cooperation, and direct engagement with students, the visit provided an opportunity to assess USJ-CI’s progress and identify priorities for its next stage of development.
The delegation was led by Prof. François Boëdec, SJ, Rector of USJ, and included Ms. Carla Eddé, Vice-Rector for International Relations; Ms. Jana Aouad, Director of the Information and Orientation Office (SIO); and Ms. Ursula El Hage, Director of the Career and Placement Office (SIP).
A major outcome of the visit was the signing of a framework agreement with the Jesuit University of Abidjan (UJA-CERAP), opening new avenues for academic exchange and joint initiatives, particularly in Ignatian pedagogy. The ceremony was followed by a discussion with UJA students, during which Prof. Boëdec presented USJ and members of the delegation outlined opportunities for student mobility, collaborative activities, and cooperation in employability and innovation. The discussion continued in a more relaxed setting, allowing for further exchanges with students.
The visit also provided an opportunity to engage with senior Ivorian officials and representatives of the diplomatic community. In a meeting with H.E. Adama Diawara, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the delegation discussed USJ-CI’s development plans and scholarship opportunities for candidates nominated by the Ministry. The Minister welcomed the initiative and expressed his support for its continued development.
Discussions with H.E. Magida Karaki, Lebanon’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, focused on USJ’s activities and the future of USJ-CI. The Ambassador reiterated her interest in the initiative and her willingness to support its advancement. The delegation also met with H.E. Jean-Christophe Belliard, France’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, for an exchange on the challenges facing higher education in the country. Highlighting the importance of skills development and investment in human capital, he welcomed USJ-CI’s contribution to quality higher education.
Further discussions with the Rector of Félix Houphouët-Boigny University, Dr. Walid Zahreddine, and USJ-CI’s founding partners provided an opportunity to review the University’s progress and maintain close cooperation with its academic and institutional partners.
Beyond these official meetings, the visit placed particular emphasis on USJ-CI’s students and its connections with the wider community. At a reception on campus, school principals and representatives of the Lebanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Côte d’Ivoire (CCILCI) met with USJ and USJ-CI leaders, strengthening relationships with local educational and business networks. The delegation also met with the President of the USJ Alumni Association.
A separate gathering brought together students from across USJ-CI’s academic programs for an open discussion with the visiting delegation. Prof. Boëdec emphasized USJ-CI’s importance to the University and reiterated USJ’s commitment to supporting its students and responding to their needs. The conversation centered on opportunities to pursue studies at USJ in Beirut, internships, international mobility, and academic and career pathways.
Alongside these exchanges, the delegation conducted a detailed review of USJ-CI’s academic and administrative operations. Four working sessions with program coordinators examined the delivery of existing programs and opportunities for their development. A separate meeting with Mr. Boti and Mr. Rustom addressed academic and administrative matters, including the University’s information system.
Together, these discussions helped clarify priorities for USJ-CI’s next phase of growth. Building on its partnerships and the progress achieved to date, USJ will continue to work closely with USJ-CI on expanding its academic offerings, developing new projects, and strengthening the foundations for its long-term success.
