Togo and France unite to cultivate future agricultural engineers
The Groupe Scientifique SIGMA from Togo and France’s École Supérieure des Agricultures (ESA) have embarked on a significant new chapter in their academic collaboration. On Monday, June 15, 2026, in Lomé, both esteemed institutions formally established a strategic partnership designed to significantly enhance the education of aspiring agricultural engineers across Togo.
This pioneering collaboration will manifest with the launch of a dedicated Scientific Preparatory Class, set to welcome young science baccalaureate graduates starting in the 2026-2027 academic year.
A new pathway to excellence for science graduates
Unveiled during a press briefing with media professionals, this innovative educational offering aims to meticulously prepare students for advanced agricultural engineering studies. It simultaneously addresses the escalating demand within Togo’s agricultural sector and across the broader West African sub-region.
The joint ambition of SIGMA and ESA is to nurture a cadre of professionals equipped to navigate and drive the profound agricultural, food security, and environmental transformations currently facing Africa.
“Connecting excellence to the earth”
Dr. Ingénieur Beaugrain Domongue, Director of Development and Foresight at Groupe Scientifique SIGMA, articulated that this groundbreaking initiative is deeply rooted in a vision to modernize Togo’s agricultural sector through the strategic application of science and innovation. He emphasized, “We are committed to connecting academic excellence with practical agricultural realities, bolstering the innovative capacity of our producers, and harnessing knowledge to fortify our nation’s food sovereignty.”
Dr. Domongue further highlighted that this collaboration between SIGMA and ESA represents a significant leap forward, marking a pivotal innovation within Togo’s higher education landscape and for society across Africa.
ESA’s pedagogical expertise deployed
Under the terms of this significant cooperation, the École Supérieure des Agricultures will lend its extensive pedagogical expertise. This includes providing comprehensive training frameworks, strengthening the capabilities of local educators, and actively participating in academic juries.
A key feature of the partnership is the organization of an annual “Summer Workshop” hosted at ESA’s campus in Angers, France. This invaluable opportunity will provide Togolese students with international exposure and an immersive experience within a globally recognized academic environment.
The curriculum places considerable emphasis on life sciences, sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, food systems, and technological innovation. It leverages the active and renowned pedagogical methodologies for which the French institution is celebrated.
A five-year journey to become an agricultural engineer
The preparatory phase of the program spans two academic years, focusing on solidifying scientific knowledge and building foundational understanding in agriculture, livestock management, and food science. Upon successful completion of this initial stage, students will seamlessly transition into ESA’s three-year engineering cycle. This comprehensive pathway culminates in the conferral of a prestigious agricultural engineer diploma.
This pioneering program is poised to meet the escalating demand for experts capable of guiding the evolution of the agricultural sector and significantly contributing to the enhancement of food sovereignty across Africa, impacting governance and society positively.
SIGMA: a beacon of scientific excellence in Togo
Established in 2018, the Groupe Scientifique SIGMA stands as a premier institution for scientific education in Togo, encompassing a college, a high school, and various preparatory programs.
The institution’s core mission is to cultivate a new generation of scientists, engineers, researchers, and decision-makers. These future leaders will be equipped to tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century through a pedagogical approach founded on rigorous standards, innovation, international perspectives, and unwavering academic excellence.
