UVCI receives MTN ICT Hub to advance digital inclusion in Côte d’Ivoire

By:  Robert Annor

The Virtual University of Côte d’Ivoire (UVCI) has officially received the keys to the MTN ICT Hub located at the Grand-Bassam digital point of presence, marking a significant step in efforts to promote digital inclusion and strengthen higher education through technology.

The handover took place on December 10, 2025, with UVCI President Koné Tiémoman describing the facility as a critical asset for the institution. He noted that the fully equipped and highly connected digital space was provided by the MTN Foundation, which has previously supported UVCI through several capacity-building initiatives.

The ICT Hub is housed in a two-storey building comprising offices, a lobby and modern digital rooms. The project is the result of a partnership between UVCI and the MTN Foundation aimed at accelerating technological innovation and supporting the digital transformation of higher education in Côte d’Ivoire.

According to UVCI, the initiative aligns with a broader national vision to promote digital inclusion while serving as a flagship project for the country’s digital future. Koné Tiémoman highlighted the importance of collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, noting that the facility will help strengthen national capacity in key digital fields.

He also revealed that students have already begun developing projects at the hub that could have practical impacts on the daily lives of residents of Grand-Bassam. In addition, he announced plans to establish a UNESCO Chair in Artificial Intelligence, Humanities and Open Science.

Speaking at the event, MTN Côte d’Ivoire Secretary General, Naténin Coulibaly reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting youth education, employability and skills development. She emphasized MTN’s role in delivering advanced technological solutions to drive Africa’s development and reaffirmed the company’s intention to work with partners to build a coherent system that enables young people to contribute to Côte d’Ivoire’s growth through research and innovation.