SLB invests 10 billion FCFA in training Ivorian engineers

SLB, formerly Schlumberger, a giant in oilfield services, has announced a significant investment in the Félix Houphouët-Boigny National Polytechnic Institute INP-HB in Yamoussoukro. This investment includes a donation of advanced software, valued at 10 billion FCFA, and the provision of scholarships. The strategic partnership, formalized on April 1, 2026, at the INP-HB campus, aims to enhance local expertise in Côte d'Ivoire's evolving energy sector. The donation primarily consists of licenses for industry-standard software, such as the Petrel reservoir modeling tool, which is widely used by major global oil companies. These technologies are designated exclusively for educational purposes, including modeling, reservoir simulation, and final year projects within the Higher School of Commerce and Business Administration ESCAE and the Institute's technical programs. Olivia Djibo, General Director of SLB Côte d’Ivoire, stated that this initiative is an investment in Ivorian talent and the country's capacity to build a sustainable energy future. The program addresses the critical need to align academic training with operational demands in Côte d'Ivoire, enabling future Ivorian engineers to train using international oil and gas industry standards. In addition to the technological contribution, SLB has selected five INP-HB students to receive the "SLB Scholarship," providing financial and academic support to foster future leaders in the country's energy sector. The ceremony was atte