The University of Lomé has a new department dedicated to innovation and technology: UniPod-Togo. The facility, spanning 1,200 m2, was inaugurated on February 28, 2025, by the Minister for Higher Education and Research, Kanka-Malik Natchaba, and UNDP Resident Representative in Togo, Binta Sanneh.
The UNDP’s Timbuktoo initiative funded UniPod-Togo with over CFA1 billion ($1.6 million). This is the 14th facility of its kind in Africa. It includes eight laboratories, three dedicated spaces, an amphitheater, and a technology transfer office.
“In a constantly changing world, innovation remains the key to meeting global and national challenges, and Togo in particular, with its dynamic, enterprising youth, must not be left behind,” said Binta Sanneh, UNDP Resident Representative.
Minister Natchaba said the project aligns with the government’s goal to leverage higher education to drive innovation and development. He added that UniPod-Togo will stimulate entrepreneurship and support the creation of start-ups that can transform Togo’s economy.
Indeed, the facility is designed to be a nest for developing new ideas, mentoring, training networking, and a place where entrepreneurs and young people can secure financing.
