The Scientific Group SIGMA in Togo and France’s École Supérieure des Agricultures (ESA) have announced a significant advancement in their academic collaboration. On Monday, June 15, 2026, in Lomé, the two institutions formally established a strategic partnership designed to enhance the training of aspiring agricultural engineers in Togo.
This innovative collaboration will commence with the opening of a Scientific Preparatory Class, specifically for young science baccalaureate graduates, starting in the 2026-2027 academic year.
A premier pathway for science baccalaureate graduates
Unveiled during a press conference with media professionals, this new educational offering aims to prepare students for advanced agricultural engineering studies. It directly addresses the increasing demands of the agricultural sector not only in Togo but across the entire West African sub-region.
The joint ambition of both establishments is to cultivate professionals equipped to navigate and lead the agricultural, food, and environmental transformations that are critical for Africa’s future.
“Connecting excellence to the land”
Dr. Ingénieur Beaugrain Domongue, Director of Development and Foresight for the Scientific Group SIGMA, emphasized that this initiative reflects a strategic vision for modernizing the agricultural sector through science and innovation.
“Our goal is to connect excellence with the land, bolster the innovative capacity of our producers, and leverage knowledge to advance our food sovereignty,” he stated. He further noted that this partnership between SIGMA and ESA represents a significant innovation within Togo’s higher education landscape.
ESA’s pedagogical expertise deployed
Under this collaborative framework, the École Supérieure des Agricultures will contribute its renowned pedagogical expertise. This includes providing comprehensive training frameworks, strengthening the capabilities of local educators, and participating in academic juries.
The partnership also features an annual “Summer Workshop” hosted at ESA’s campus in Angers, France. This invaluable opportunity will offer students international exposure and immersive experiences within a globally recognized academic environment.
The curriculum will place strong emphasis on life sciences, agriculture, environmental studies, food systems, and technological innovation. It will employ the active pedagogical methods for which the French institution is well-regarded.
A five-year journey to become an agricultural engineer
The preparatory training phase spans two academic years, focusing on solidifying scientific knowledge and acquiring foundational principles related to agriculture, livestock farming, and food production.
Upon successful completion of this initial phase, students will progress to ESA’s three-year engineering cycle. At the culmination of their comprehensive studies, they will be awarded the esteemed agricultural engineer diploma.
This new academic pathway is poised to address the escalating demand for experts capable of guiding agricultural transformations and significantly contributing to strengthening food sovereignty across Africa.
SIGMA: a pillar of scientific excellence in Togo
Established in 2018, the Scientific Group SIGMA stands as a distinguished institution for scientific education, encompassing a college, a high school, and preparatory programs.
The institution’s core mission is to cultivate a new generation of scientists, engineers, researchers, and decision-makers. They are trained to tackle the challenges of the 21st century through a pedagogical approach founded on rigor, innovation, international perspective, and academic excellence.
