On this day in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, 44 young world-changers (21 women/23 men) graduated from the International University of Grand-Bassam with their bachelor’s degrees, honors and awards. A total of 24 received degrees in business administration; 14 graduated with political science degrees and six more obtained STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) degrees (three each in computer science and mathematics).
Female graduates received two of the highest academic awards: Reine Christelle Sadia received magna cum laude honors (Bachelor of Mathematics; GPA 3.90) and Arianne Hilary Batafoe N’Gnoron received the Highest Female GPA in STEM award, sponsored by the U.S. Embassy (GPA of 3.97; Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology). Hundreds of friends and family turned out to support our students at this well-attended event. Mr. Jean-Marie Ackah, president, Confederation Generale des Enterprises de Cote d’Ivoire (CGECI) was IUGB’s 2019 commencement speaker. The ceremony, including student interviews, was widely covered on national Ivoirian television.
One of IUGB’s most important goals is graduating students who continue their positive impact locally and globally. Our students’ efforts were widely recognized by our corporate partners at the 2019 commencement ceremony. Eunice Kouame celebrated Woman’s Day with the “SHE” Club on March 8 and a subsequent panel discussion; “Empowering Women’s Lives”. Cargill awarded her the Community Involvement Award which recognizes exemplary service, leadership and commitment that positively impact the community. Kassi Bertrand, Billy N’Zalasse’ and Cedric Jonas Kadio organized a March 28 art exhibition to promote IUGB student creativity and received the Innovation Award from corporate partner Citibank for innovative thinking and solutions. Finally, pn April 6, Coca-Cola presented the Environmental Award to UClub President Reine Christelle Sadia for organizing the IUGB Trash Challenge, a massive university-area cleanup and community dialogue on maintaining a clean environment.
The IUGB Foundation provided all of our graduates with business cards and business card holders to usher in their transition to the world of business and employment. We also organized soft skills and leadership training for graduates provided as a gift to the university by Nabou Fall, CEO of Vizeo Communications. Congratulations to our graduates, our students, our corporate partners, and of course, all of the IUGB faculty and administration who made this outstanding day possible!