The Scientific Group SIGMA and France’s École Supérieure des Agricultures (ESA) have taken a decisive step forward in their academic alliance. On June 15, 2026, in Lomé, the two institutions formalized a strategic partnership aimed at elevating the training of future agronomy engineers in Togo.
This collaboration will materialize with the launch of a Scientific Preparatory Class for high school graduates with a scientific background, starting in the 2026-2027 academic year.
Building tomorrow’s agronomy leaders
Unveiled during a press briefing, this innovative training pathway is designed to equip students for agronomy engineering studies while addressing the growing demands of Togo’s agricultural sector and the broader West African region.
The initiative seeks to cultivate professionals capable of driving agricultural, food, and environmental transformations—a critical need for Africa’s sustainable development.
Merging global standards with local agricultural needs
Dr. Ing. Beaugrain Domongue, Director of Development and Foresight at SIGMA, emphasized the initiative’s role in modernizing agriculture through science and innovation.
« Our goal is to bridge academic excellence with practical agriculture, empower local producers with innovation, and harness knowledge to bolster food sovereignty across the continent, » he stated.
The partnership marks a groundbreaking advancement in Togo’s higher education landscape, combining SIGMA’s local expertise with ESA’s global pedagogical standards.
ESA’s academic excellence at the heart of the program
Under the agreement, the École Supérieure des Agricultures will contribute by supplying updated curricula, training educators, and participating in academic evaluations. A key highlight is the annual Summer Workshop in Angers, France, where students will gain international exposure and immerse themselves in a globally recognized academic setting.
The curriculum will emphasize life sciences, agriculture, environmental studies, food systems, and technological innovation, leveraging ESA’s renowned active learning methodologies.
A five-year pathway to agronomy engineering
The preparatory phase spans two academic years, focusing on strengthening scientific foundations and core agricultural, livestock, and food-related disciplines. Following this, students will transition into ESA’s three-year engineering cycle, culminating in a degree in agronomy engineering.
The program directly addresses the rising need for experts capable of guiding agricultural shifts and reinforcing food security across Africa.
SIGMA: A beacon of scientific excellence in Togo
Founded in 2018, the Scientific Group SIGMA is a premier educational institution in Togo, encompassing a high school, preparatory programs, and advanced scientific training. Its mission is to cultivate a new generation of scientists, engineers, researchers, and leaders equipped to tackle 21st-century challenges through rigorous, innovative, and internationally oriented education.
