The Ivorian Minister of National Education and Literacy, Mariatou Koné, showcased Côte d'Ivoire’s innovative education funding models at the World Education Summit, which took place from October 31 to November 1, 2024, in Fortaleza, Brazil. She participated in two panels focused on education financing and innovative funding solutions, addressing the importance of sustainable investment to ensure accessible and quality education for all.

The summit aimed to establish strategies for increasing education investment while promoting innovative funding tools in the sector. The overarching goal is to improve both the amount and quality of education funding tailored to the needs of each country, thereby reducing inequalities and bridging the financing gaps hindering progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4).

Minister Koné emphasized Côte d'Ivoire’s commitment to quality education for all, noting significant government investments in the sector, which remains a national priority. The country allocates 4% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 22% of its national budget to education.

To enhance the quality of the education system, Côte d'Ivoire has implemented a policy focused on innovative funding. This strategy mobilizes resources from bilateral and multilateral partners, the Debt Relief and Development Contract (C2D), and public-private partnerships with the cocoa industry. Additionally, funding mechanisms like the Global Partnership for Education’s Multiplier Fund and the Results-Based Financing (P for R) model enable Côte d'Ivoire to secure additional funds when educational objectives are met.

With these approaches, Côte d'Ivoire aims to strengthen its education sector through sustainable funding models, reflecting a commitment to reducing educational disparities and achieving equitable access to quality education.