FARI 2025 Sets Strategic Roadmap for ECOWAS Education Ministers to Boost Youth Innovation and Inclusive Entrepreneurship By Raymond Enoch.

As the curtains closed on the 2025 edition of the African Forum for Research and Innovation (FARI) in Cotonou, a strong call to action echoed from the heart of the forum’s deliberations—West Africa must harness the innovative potential of its youth through education, inclusive policies, and regional collaboration.

Held from May 5th to 9th, FARI 2025 brought together researchers, policymakers, and thought leaders under the theme of advancing science, technology, and innovation for sustainable development. On the fourth day, the forum’s Scientific Committee, led by Professor Saliou Touré, former Minister of Education of Côte d’Ivoire, presented a comprehensive set of recommendations to ministers of education from ECOWAS member states.

Among the key proposals was the institutionalization of regional innovation competitions and cross-border exchange programmes to foster collaboration among young innovators. The committee urged national governments to strengthen entrepreneurial training, particularly in emerging sectors such as digital technology, green energy, and agritech.

A significant emphasis was placed on inclusion, with the Committee calling for the creation of targeted programmes for women and young people with disabilities. These initiatives are intended to ensure that innovation ecosystems reflect the diversity of the region’s population and unlock untapped talent.

Additionally, the recommendations highlighted the need for better access to funding, advocating for ECOWAS member states to align with regional financial instruments and support mechanisms designed to empower start-ups and youth-led enterprises.

“These recommendations are not just a roadmap—they are a commitment to future generations,” said Prof. Touré. “By embracing inclusive innovation, ECOWAS countries can create a resilient, knowledge-driven economy that offers real opportunities to their youth.”

As FARI 2025 concludes, the spotlight now shifts to policymakers and their willingness to translate these insights into transformative action—laying the foundation for a more innovative, equitable, and prosperous West Africa.