Pr. Jean Koulidiati is a prominent figure in African academia and politics, known for his contributions to higher education, government service, and now continental leadership. His appointment in 2023 as the Rector of the Pan-African University (PAU) marks a significant milestone in a career characterized by academic excellence, political service, and a commitment to advancing education across Africa.

Pr. Koulidiati's academic journey began as a university professor, where he made significant contributions to international education. As the educational coordinator for a relocated Master's degree program from Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3 to Joseph KI-ZERBO University, he demonstrated his expertise in bridging academic institutions across continents. His ascent in academia reached new heights when he assumed the presidency of the University of Ouagadougou (now Joseph KI-ZERBO University), showcasing his capacity for academic administration.

Pr. Koulidiati's influence extends beyond academia into public service. He held two significant ministerial positions in the government of Burkina Faso, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to national development. As Minister of the Environment and Sustainable Development, he spearheaded crucial environmental initiatives, including unveiling the Wind Atlas of Burkina Faso in 2011. Later, as Minister of Digital Economy Development and Postal Services, he contributed to Burkina Faso's technological advancement by focusing on digital infrastructure and services.

Throughout his career, Pr. Koulidiati has cultivated a reputation for rigor, methodology, and extensive experience in higher education. This reputation for excellence played a crucial role in his appointment as Rector of the PAU in June 2023.

As Rector of the PAU, Pr. Koulidiati oversees five thematic institutes spread across Africa. These include institutes focused on Life and Earth Sciences, Basic Sciences and Technology, Governance and Social Sciences, Water and Energy Sciences, and Space Sciences. Pr. Koulidiati's responsibilities in this position extend beyond administration, as he is also charged with promoting African integration through various means, including facilitating the mobility of students and staff across the continent, fostering collaborative research addressing challenges faced by African countries, and creating frameworks to engage the African diaspora in developing higher education and research in Africa.

As Pr. Koulidiati has embarked on this new chapter as PAU Rector, he brings a wealth of experience and a vision for the future of African higher education. His unique blend of academic expertise, political savvy, and commitment to continental development positions him as a transformative leader in African education. Through his leadership of the PAU, Pr. Koulidiati is poised to make significant contributions to the advancement of higher education, research, and innovation across Africa, furthering the continent's progress and integration through academic excellence and collaboration.

Pr. Koulidiati's journey from university professor to the helm of a continental academic institution serves as an inspiration and a testament to the power of dedication, expertise, and visionary leadership in shaping the future of education in Africa. As he takes on the challenges of his new role, Pr. Jean Koulidiati stands ready to guide the PAU towards new heights of academic achievement and continental impact.

Pour plus d'informations, veuillez contacter :

Mlle Bilampassi Moutsatsi Claudette Chancelle Marie-Paule |

PAU – ESTI Communication Officer| Department of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation| African Union Commission| E-mail: BilampassiC@africa-union.org|

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org