On July 4, 2026, UNESCO Mali participated in the award ceremony of the 16th edition of the Inter-High School Excellence Competition, hosted by the National School of Engineers Abderhamane Baba Touré (ENI-ABT) in Bamako. The event brought together students, teachers, academic leaders, and partners to celebrate academic excellence and innovation among Mali’s youth.

The competition, organized by the ENI-ABT UNESCO Club, highlights the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in driving progress. Dr. Kélétigui Daou, Director-General of ENI-ABT, opened the ceremony by expressing gratitude to UNESCO for its involvement and commended the organization’s efforts in advancing education nationwide. He specifically praised UNESCO’s initiatives to increase girls’ participation in STEM fields, as well as fostering scientific research and youth innovation.

The Secretary-General of the ENI-ABT UNESCO Club emphasized the role of this year’s competition in recognizing merit and academic achievement. She underscored how UNESCO Clubs across Mali contribute to values like citizenship, peace, and sustainable development through educational activities.

Oumou Dicko, UNESCO Mali’s Science Program Officer, congratulated the organizers and participants on the successful event. She highlighted the opportunities available to young Malian students through UNESCO, including scholarships, mentorship programs, and participation in international observances. She urged students to embrace STEM disciplines as a pathway to national development.