A new model in school education

Who I Am

I am Souleymane Coulibaly, born in Koulikoro in western Mali, and I grew up in Ségou, a city that shaped my identity, values, and worldview.

My journey began in Malian schools, where I completed primary and secondary education before enrolling at the University of Bamako to study medicine. Over time, however, I felt a profound disconnect between the theoretical learning I received and the concrete realities of everyday life. This realization led me to redirect my path toward what truly passionate me: art, creation, and entrepreneurship.

After apprenticing with a bogolan artisan, I founded my own business and dedicated ten years to mastering this craft. Through perseverance, hard work, and faith in my convictions, I built one of the largest artisan centers in the sub-region: the Centre Soroble—without any external aid or institutional support. This achievement became my true school: a school of life, courage, and creativity.

Drawing from this experience, I took time to observe and analyze our African education system, where I identified a deep flaw:

• We train graduates, but not creators.
• We teach theory, but neglect practice.
• We prioritize general education, but overlook technical training and local skills.

From this reflection emerged a vision: to rethink education to foster independent, productive, and innovative minds. That's why I founded the Fanga School project, an engineering and innovation school tested for eight years in the village of Fintiguila.

This educational model relies 80% on technology and hands-on practice to train not only artisans and technicians, but also engineers capable of creating jobs, innovating locally, and contributing to the economic stability of our countries.

My wish is simple:
That every young African can turn their knowledge into practical skills, and their dreams into meaningful works that serve their community and respect the environment.