Libreville, Gabon – In a historic achievement for Gabon, the EM Gabon-Université group has proudly announced the graduation of its very first doctor, Louis Bertrand Ogoula Ikinda. After defending his thesis on June 28, 2025, at the University of Libreville, Ikinda has set a new benchmark for the country’s academic and environmental sustainability landscape.
Groundbreaking Thesis on Community Forests
Ikinda’s thesis, titled “Analysis of individual and institutional practices of community forests in the face of sustainable development challenges in Gabon,” marks a significant milestone. It is the first extensive study on gender in community forests conducted in Gabon over the past two decades. The thesis emphasizes the critical role of local populations in achieving environmental sustainability.
“For a long time, we thought that Africa was communitarian and we could all manage together. In reality, even in Africa, the forest belongs to someone, and therefore people can play in the clandestine passenger,” noted Ikinda. He recommends a collaborative governance approach involving strong government action, local populations, and NGOs.
Distinguished Jury and Academic Streams
Ikinda’s thesis received rigorous scrutiny from an international jury comprising esteemed associate professors from universities such as Côte d’Azur (France), Cheikh Anta Diop (Senegal), Douala (Cameroon), and Omar Bongo (Gabon). The jury highlighted the importance of exploring the non-economic aspects of sustainable forest management.
“You have seen the quality of the members of the jury, which shows the credibility of our doctoral program and what shows the great added value of what we can humbly bring to our dear country,” expressed Daniel Franck Idiata, the founding president of the EM Gabon-Université group. The EM Gabon-Université group spans six specialized components, including the Doctoral School of Social Sciences, of which Ikinda is now a part.
Future Implications for Sustainable Forestry
This achievement signals a promising future for Gabon’s approach to environmental sustainability and community forest management. The insights garnered from Ikinda’s research could inform policies and practices that cater to both the economic and social well-being of local communities while ensuring the long-term viability of Gabon’s vital forest resources.
“We are at a pivotal moment in history where sustainability is not just a choice but a necessity. Gabon’s newly graduated doctor offers an invaluable perspective on how we can achieve this,” said environmental expert Pierre Marcel from the University of Libreville.
Looking Ahead
As Gabon celebrates this academic milestone, the focus shifts towards implementing the groundbreaking research and policy recommendations. By fostering a collaborative and sustainable approach to forest management, the country can pave the way for a greener and more prosperous future for all its inhabitants.
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