Opening Ceremony for Seventh Technical Higher Education Center in Les Côteaux

Professor Jean-Robert Dossaint, representing the Ministry of National Education and serving as a strategic advisor to Minister Vijonet Déméro, led the ceremony. He emphasized that technical education centers should focus not just on their physical location but also on their broader territorial impact. "The Les Côteaux CEST must look beyond its walls," he said, adding that it needs to engage with nearby coastal towns and support local agriculture, fishing, small businesses, and community initiatives.

Dr. Magdala Jean-Baptiste, Vice-President of the Council of Rectors of Departmental Public Universities (UPD) and Rector of the UPSEJ in Jacmel, highlighted the center’s mission to train young people while considering the economic realities and potential of Les Côteaux and surrounding areas.

Professor Edouard Jules, Rector of UPSAC, discussed how universities can transform regions by fostering intellectual, scientific, and professional environments. Etienne Louisseul France, Departmental Director of Education for the South Department, stressed that higher education links theoretical knowledge with practical application to solve societal issues.

Participants

The ceremony included high-ranking officials from the South Department, rectors from various departmental universities, local government representatives, and civil society members.