Côte d’Ivoire launches first digital economy management internships in Abidjan

Historic milestone for Côte d’Ivoire’s digital transformation

The Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, Djibril Ouattara, inaugurated on June 22, 2026, the professional immersion phase for the first cohort of the Digital Economy Management license program at the École multinationale supérieure des postes (EMSP). This pioneering initiative marks a significant step in preparing future leaders to drive digital transformation across Côte d’Ivoire and seven other African member states.

A three-month immersion experience

The internship, running from June 22 to September 22, 2026, is an integral part of the third-year curriculum for the 100 students enrolled in the Digital Economy Management Higher Studies Program (FS MENUM). Each intern will be placed in one of 43 public, semi-public, or private organizations, where they will apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings while developing professional and interpersonal skills.

To support their transition into professional environments, students received financial assistance covering three months of scholarship funds, helping offset expenses such as transportation during their internship period.

A call for excellence and responsibility

Addressing the cohort as “pioneers,” Djibril Ouattara emphasized the historic significance of their journey and the responsibilities that come with being the first graduates of this program. “This is not just another class. You are the trailblazers who will set the standard for the industry and administration to judge the value of this degree. You carry not only the reputation of EMSP but also the future of digital transformation in our countries,” he stated during the official ceremony held at the Tour Postel 2001 auditorium.

The minister urged the students to embody values of rigor, integrity, discipline, and excellence, encouraging them to be curious, proactive, and bold in their approach to challenges.

EMSP’s evolving mission in the digital era

Michel Touré, Director-General of EMSP, reflected on the institution’s evolution since its founding in 1970 under the auspices of the Universal Postal Union. Originally focused on training postal and financial services professionals for its eight member states—Bénin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Sénégal, and Togo—EMSP has expanded its educational offerings to meet the demands of a rapidly changing technological landscape.

“We are not training engineers or technicians. We are shaping a new generation of professionals capable of thriving in diverse ecosystems—postal services, digital finance, logistics, and beyond,” Touré explained. “These graduates will be the bridge between traditional sectors and emerging digital industries.”

A ceremony attended by regional leaders

The launch event brought together key figures, including the Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson, Amadou Coulibaly, and the Ambassador of Mauritania to Côte d’Ivoire, Mohamed Abdallah, representing the other member states of EMSP.