Junior Business
The IHEM and the Bamako Forum share very strong links since they are both headed by Abdallah Coulibaly. This element is very insufficient to qualify the multiple and deep synergies between the IHEM and the Bamako Forum. The IHEM and the Forum are part of an inseparable whole which we have the duty to present to you.
Mr Coulibaly sought to create a unique ecosystem of its kind in Mali. Creating a business school was already a major challenge, but it was not enough. An original African initiative was needed outside the conventional and institutional frameworks which allow, under the sign of freedom of speech, conviviality and a high level of debate, meetings between business leaders, politicians, public decision-makers, academics, experts, representatives of civil society and the media, from the African continent and other continents.
The Bamako Forum was therefore created in this sense to promote the mixing of knowledge and the sharing of knowledge in a participatory approach which arouses growing interest each year (during the month of February). As proof, the Bamako Forum has enjoyed longevity which allowed it to celebrate its 18th anniversary in 2018. For several years, the Bamako Forum has generated strong mobilization from the major international media, in particular through the organization of television events and radio programs at each edition. A major debate, broadcast by African television, has been implemented for several years jointly by Canal France International (CFI) and Radio France Internationale (RFI), with the assistance of the Malian Radio and Television Office (ORTM), etc. .
Accompanied and supported by numerous public and private partners, the Bamako Forum publishes at each of its editions a memorandum submitted to the President of the Republic of Mali. This document, as well as the contributions produced within the framework of the Forum, are tools for analysis, reflection and proposals intended for decision-makers and organizations involved in development issues in Africa. Furthermore, the work of the Bamako Forum, as well as the reflections generated by the Bamako Forum Foundation, are made available to the widest public through various channels: internet, press articles, radio and television reports and debates, publications.
The training of future Malian and African elites is a first step which fits perfectly with the Bamako Forum to guide the reflections and actions necessary for the future development of Africa. The forum enjoys a reputation that has been built over the years, the press now calls the Forum the little ”Davos of Africa”. Without any pretension, the IHEM teams participating, voluntarily, in the Forum or the teams of the Bamako Forum foundation which is responsible for the organization of this event are proud of the results of this IHEM/Forum de Bamako.
Educational Objective
A powerful educational tool
A junior enterprise is a real educational tool since, each year, junior entrepreneurs are trained and develop new skills. Junior entrepreneurs are also a significant contribution to the establishment since they can be a source of contribution in contact with the methods and tools of their clients. The student is put in a real practice situation and is introduced to different disciplines such as management, customer relations, auditing, piloting or even project management (non-exhaustive list). The student also acquires know-how more commonly called “soft skills” such as creativity and rigor. In other words, students build themselves and try their hand at developing business sense, building a professional network, etc.
Promote the professional integration of students
Junior Enterprises represent real bridges between school and business. These student structures represent the ultimate weapon against the economic crisis and the professional integration problems of young people. The general press even reports that junior companies are not experiencing the crisis with annual turnover growth of 14.5%1. It's a fact, companies appreciate the mention junior-entrepreneur on a CV. It is in fact the guarantee of a complete profile, trained in team management, etc. For companies, all these elements are guarantees of a successful future integration of these young profiles into their companies. The client does not see students as just students. Students are considered collaborators, consultants. This configuration represents a highly formative dynamic.
