For nearly a decade, CIRES, like other reputable institutions, has—in keeping with its tradition—organized a New Year’s greeting ceremony, which took place on Thursday, January 24, in the library hall. Indeed, this ceremony served as a platform for meeting and exchange between senior leadership and the broader CIRES community. Once again this year, as is customary, it was an opportunity to briefly review the past year and outline prospects for the new year.

In an atmosphere that was both solemn and warm, several speakers took turns at the lectern to offer their New Year’s greetings and, in some cases, to voice their concerns.

Mr. HUGES BOGRA Judicaël and Ms. AGOHA DEBORAH ROXANE, representatives of the GPE students and the CIRES Master 2 in Rural Economics program, respectively, opened the proceedings by thanking the Administration for its academic support and offering their best wishes. According to them, this is an opportunity for students to take their first steps into the world of research. They also highlighted the various benefits the Center’s administration provides them on its premises. Ms. AGOHA emphasized that it is a source of pride for the students of the M2ER program to be mentored by a center recognized as the best think tank in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The PAT delegate, Ms. ADJEYE, thanked the Management for the support it provides by sparing no effort to improve working conditions and also to enhance the center’s visibility.

Dr. KOFFI Affoué Cécile, on behalf of the researchers, reviewed the actions taken to meet the researchers’ needs, particularly regarding the center’s outreach and revitalization. However, she did not fail to mention that much remains to be done, as the task is a significant one.

The Director of CAPEC, Prof. AHOURE ALBAN, and Prof. MAMA OUATTARA, Director of the GPE Program, commended the work accomplished by all stakeholders toward revitalizing the center, as well as everyone’s contribution to improving the working and research environment; they also urged everyone to rally together to meet future challenges, as the stakes are high.

As for the Dean of URF-SEG, who was represented by his Vice Dean, Dr. KONE Salif, he congratulated the researchers who were promoted during 2018 and expressed his hope that these promotions would continue in the new year, 2019.

Dr. Diarra, the host of the day, began by reiterating his wishes for a happy and prosperous new year to the entire community. He then expressed his gratitude to his two deputies, who consistently support him in raising the profile of CIRES. He also took the opportunity to once again congratulate the promoted researchers and encourage others to redouble their efforts.

In recognition of her contributions, a tribute was paid to Ms. DJEDJE MAGALI of the IRD, who is concluding her assignment in Côte d’Ivoire. For her much-appreciated contribution to the center’s visibility since she took office five years ago; thanks to her efforts, CIRES was able to acquire video conferencing equipment. Thus, on behalf of the entire community, Ms. DJEDJE received a display stand bearing the center’s logo as a token of appreciation. A gift she greatly appreciated.

The meeting concluded with a light meal serving as a first friendly gathering for everyone.