Guinea’s new Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Djami Diallo, officially assumed office on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, during a handover ceremony chaired by the Minister Secretary General of the Government, Benoît Kamano.
Formerly serving as Minister of the Environment, Djami Diallo succeeds Dr. Diaka Sidibé, whose tenure was marked by a series of reforms aimed at strengthening Guinea’s higher education and scientific research sectors.
Tribute to Ongoing Reforms
During the ceremony, Dr. Diaka Sidibé reflected on the progress achieved under her leadership while acknowledging that several important initiatives remain in progress.
She noted that reforms in higher education require long-term commitment and continuity, expressing confidence that her successor will continue advancing the projects already underway despite challenges such as budget constraints and financing delays.
Dr. Sidibé also praised the ministry’s dedicated staff and reaffirmed her belief that public service is built on commitment, transparency, and perseverance.
Three Priorities for Higher Education
In her inaugural address, Minister Djami Diallo presented three strategic priorities that will guide her leadership of the ministry.
Improving the Quality of Education
The first priority is to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education programmes by modernising curricula, strengthening academic standards, and ensuring graduates possess the skills required by Guinea’s evolving economy.
According to the minister, every university qualification should contribute to employability, innovation, and national development.
Strengthening Research and Innovation
The second priority focuses on expanding scientific research that directly supports Guinea’s development goals.
The ministry plans to strengthen support for researchers and encourage projects addressing key sectors such as agriculture, health, energy, environmental protection, mining, digital technology, and innovation.
Strengthening Governance
The third priority centres on improving governance across higher education institutions through greater transparency, accountability, performance evaluation, and more effective management practices.
Minister Diallo emphasised that strong governance is essential for delivering quality education and achieving meaningful results.
A Collective Commitment
Djami Diallo stressed that achieving these ambitions will require close collaboration between teachers, researchers, students, administrative staff, university leaders, and development partners.
She pledged to lead with openness, accountability, and high standards while encouraging teamwork to continue the reforms already underway.
The minister reaffirmed her commitment to building a stronger, more modern higher education system capable of supporting Guinea’s long-term economic and social development.
