Togo’s third public university begins operations with a strategic leadership appointment
The University of Datcha has taken its first official steps toward becoming a hub of academic excellence in the Plateaux Region of Togo. In a decisive move, the Togolese government has appointed Professor Essohanam Batchana as its inaugural president, marking the institution’s official launch.
An experienced academic team to steer the new university
Professor Essohanam Batchana, a distinguished historian specializing in political history and international relations, brings deep institutional expertise to his new role. Previously serving as Director of Academic Affairs and Student Services at the University of Lomé, he has an intimate understanding of Togo’s higher education landscape—essential for shaping the University of Datcha’s future.
He will be supported by Professor Kperkouma Walla, a renowned botanist and plant ecologist, who has been named the institution’s first vice-president. Together, this leadership duo will lay the groundwork for the university’s administrative, scientific, and pedagogical structures, ensuring a strong foundation for growth and innovation.
Addressing higher education challenges and driving regional development
The creation of the University of Datcha was formally approved in September 2023 and responds to two critical needs within Togo’s education sector:
- Relieving pressure on existing campuses: The new university aims to reduce overcrowding at the University of Lomé and the University of Kara, offering students in the Plateaux Region greater access to higher education.
- Aligning education with local economic and social needs: By offering programs in applied sciences, technology, and professional training, the university will foster skills development that directly supports the region’s workforce and economic growth.
The University of Datcha is designed to be forward-thinking, with a curriculum rooted in modern disciplines and practical, career-oriented learning. This approach ensures graduates are equipped with the competencies needed to thrive in Togo’s evolving job market.