Fatim Cissé, née Kouadio, has officially been named patron of the 9th cohort of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at the Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Yamoussoukro. The announcement was made on Friday, April 17, 2026, during a graduation ceremony filled with symbolism.

The event brought together parents, lecturers, and students, and also marked the graduation of several cohorts, including the 6th and 7th cohorts in Data Science, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, as well as the 1st and 2nd cohorts in Security and Artificial Intelligence. In total, more than 60 graduates were celebrated.

As patron of the cohort and Managing Director of IHC Tower, Fatim Cissé expressed her pride and commitment to Ivorian youth and technological innovation.

“I am extremely proud to have witnessed the early days of this institute and to see the progress made today. I am impressed by its achievements over recent years and look forward to the impact this new cohort will have on the Ivorian economy,” she said.

Convinced of the potential of digital technologies, she highlighted the continental influence of the Institute and pledged to further support young talents.

“This institute already has a strong presence across the African continent. I foresee an even brighter future, and I intend, at my level, to encourage young people to pursue these promising fields while helping create real opportunities after their training,” she added.

Addressing the youth, Fatim Cissé emphasized the importance of engaging in future-oriented sectors. She encouraged students to consider careers in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, which are now essential in modern economies.

“It is essential for every young person to reflect on how these technologies can be integrated into their journey and contribute to the development of our country,” she advised.

During the graduation ceremony, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Planning and Development, Dr Ouattara Dongui congratulated the graduates for their excellence and praised the commitment of patrons and partners. He reminded the youth that excellence is a continuous pursuit and urged them to use their skills in the service of peace and development.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Miss Kouao expressed gratitude to the authorities, lecturers, and partner institutions. She praised the efforts made to provide them with a learning environment conducive to excellence and innovation.

The ceremony ended with the official graduation ritual in an atmosphere filled with emotion and pride, under the enthusiastic gaze of patron Fatim Cissé, now symbolically associated with the hopes of a new generation oriented toward digital innovation.