Université Alassane Ouattara (UAO) | Bouake

The University of Bouaké, now known as Université Alassane Ouattara (UAO), is one of the largest and most influential higher education institutions in Côte d'Ivoire. It is located in the city of Bouaké, which is in the central part of the country. Here's a detailed overview of the university:

History and Overview:

The university was established in 1992 to address the overcrowding at the National University of Côte d'Ivoire (now Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny). It began as an extension of the national university before achieving autonomy in 1995. In 2012, the university was renamed to Université Alassane Ouattara in honor of the then-president of Côte d'Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara.

Academic Structure:

UAO has grown significantly since its inception and is now divided into various faculties and research units. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across several disciplines. The main academic units include:

1. UFR Communication, Milieu et Société (CMS):

Departments: English, German, Spanish, Philosophy, Sociology, Modern Literature, History, Geography, and Communication.

This faculty focuses on social sciences, humanities, and communication studies, preparing students for careers in teaching, media, public relations, and related fields.

2. UFR Sciences Juridiques, Administratives et de Gestion (SJAG):

Departments: Public and private law, administration, and management.

This faculty provides legal and administrative education, offering programs in various branches of law, public administration, and business management.

3. UFR Sciences Économiques et Développement (SED):

Departments: Economics, Development Studies, and Management.

It provides a strong foundation in economics, focusing on the challenges of development, both in Côte d'Ivoire and in broader African contexts.

4. UFR Sciences Médicales (SM):

This faculty is focused on medical and health sciences education, training future doctors, nurses, and health professionals.

Research and Specialized Centers:

UAO is home to several research institutes and centers that contribute to the development of knowledge in various fields:

Centre Africain d’Histoire du Droit, des Institutions et des Idées Politiques (CAHDIIP): Focuses on African history, legal traditions, political institutions, and ideas.

Centre d’Entomologie Médicale et Vétérinaire (CEMV): Specializes in medical and veterinary entomology, studying the relationship between insects and diseases.

Centre de Formation Continue (CFC): Offers continuing education for professionals.

Centre de Recherche pour le Développement (CRD): Conducts research on sustainable development issues.

Institut Multipolaire d’Études, de Recherche et de Formation en Indicamétrie (IMERFI): Specializes in studies related to measurement and statistical research.

Student Population:

The university has a large and diverse student body, serving more than 30,000 students. The student population is composed of young Ivorians, as well as international students, especially from other West African countries.

Leadership:

The current president of UAO is Professor Kouakou Koffi Yao, a renowned specialist in animal physiology. Under his leadership, the university has continued to grow and improve its academic and research output.

International Collaborations:

UAO is involved in numerous international partnerships and collaborations. It is a member of:

Agence universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF): A global network of French-speaking universities.

Réseau pour l’Excellence de l’Enseignement Supérieur en Afrique de l’Ouest (REESAO): A regional network for higher education excellence in West Africa.

The university has exchange programs with several universities across Europe, Africa, and the Americas, facilitating research collaborations and student mobility.

Academic Reputation and Ranking:

As of 2025, Université Alassane Ouattara is recognized as one of the top universities in Côte d'Ivoire. It is ranked as the second-best university in the country and is known for its academic excellence, particularly in the fields of law, economics, and social sciences. Its medical faculty is also gaining recognition for training healthcare professionals in the country.

Location and Campus:

UAO's main campus is located in the Ahougnansou district of Bouaké, with additional facilities and research centers spread throughout the city. The university has invested in improving its infrastructure, creating a conducive environment for both teaching and research. The campus is equipped with modern lecture halls, libraries, and sports facilities.

Conclusion:

Université Alassane Ouattara plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education in Côte d'Ivoire. With its broad academic offerings, international collaborations, and focus on research and development, UAO is helping to build a skilled workforce that can contribute to the social and economic development of Côte d'Ivoire and the broader West African region. It is a vital institution for both the local and international student communities.