Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema Thursday inaugurated the Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema International University at Cap Esterias.
This new university hub aims to expand higher education opportunities, develop skills, and help
position Gabon as a regional training centre in Central Africa.
Situated on an 11-hectare site at Cap Esterias, the new Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema International University comprises 14 buildings, including academic facilities, a 386-seat lecture hall, student
residences, and a hotel-restaurant designed specifically for practical training.
The new institution is expected to accommodate nearly 4,000 students in its initial phase, eventually reaching a capacity of 12,000 students.
Academic programs will be delivered by the Faculty of Education Sciences, the Higher School of Tourism, and the Higher Institute of Technology, among others.
Emphasis is placed on career-oriented training, particularly in the fields of technology, tourism, hospitality, and the restaurant industry.
The goal is to better align curricula with labour market needs while fostering youth employability and entrepreneurship.
The project has a long history. Initiated in 2008 under former President Omar Bongo Ondimba, it was stalled for nearly fifteen years before being revived in 2024 under the presidency of Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema.
Beyond its academic role, the university is expected to generate economic benefits for Akanda and surrounding areas.
The anticipated influx of students and faculty should boost demand across several sectors, including housing, transport, retail, dining, and services.
With its international outlook, the institution also aims to attract African students and establish partnerships with foreign academic institutions.
This strategic direction is intended to boost Gabon’s appeal and strengthen its role in skills development across Central Africa.
Through this facility, the Gabonese government seeks to leverage human capital as a driver of economic transformation by focusing on employability, technical skills, and the ability of young people to create their own opportunities.
TE/Sf/fss/as/APA