The Virtual University of Côte d’Ivoire (UVCI) on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, in Abidjan, launched a regional workshop on satellite technologies aimed at strengthening the engineering capacities of young researchers in the design of microsatellites.

In his opening address, Professor Arsène Kobéa, Chief of Staff to the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, emphasized that the focus on microsatellites—particularly CubeSats—is especially relevant. According to him, these technologies offer accessible, flexible, and economically viable solutions for African countries, while enabling frequent access to Earth observation data.

“They open up new opportunities for research, training, innovation, and even technological entrepreneurship,” he explained.

He further noted that satellite technologies, remote sensing, and geographic information systems are powerful decision-support tools for managing natural resources, monitoring the environment, combating climate change, optimizing agriculture, preventing natural disasters, and supporting land-use planning.

For Professor Kobéa, the workshop fully aligns with a national dynamic reflecting the Ivorian government’s determination to make human capital, science, and technological innovation “the pillars of our emergence.”

Over the course of four days, participants will not be limited to theory alone. They will delve into structural design, thermal control, and satellite navigation systems with a clear objective: to move from being mere spectators to becoming active players in Africa’s space ambition.