On Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the Ministry of Planning and External Cooperation (MPCE), in partnership with the University of Technology of Haiti (UNITECH), the Ministry of the Interior and Territorial Communities (MICT), and the National Federation of Mayors of Haiti (FENAMH), launched the Master's program in Land Use Planning.

In her address, Sandra Paulemon, the Minister of Planning and External Cooperation, expressed her satisfaction with the launch of this program, which strengthens commitment to the country's future. She emphasized that this program, designed for public sector employees, is not an isolated action but a structuring initiative aimed at guiding urbanization, better allocating investments, and improving land use planning.

"No country can transform itself without investing in its human capital. No administration can modernize and no reform can produce lasting results without well-trained, prepared women and men motivated by a sense of service," she declared.

The Minister urged the 32 beneficiaries of the program to demonstrate rigor, discipline, and commitment in order to put their skills at the service of public action and contribute to strengthening state institutions.

For his part, Dr. Josselin Val, Rector of UNITECH, welcomed the implementation of this program, which he considers a response to a crucial issue the country has faced since its founding. He reiterated that land-use planning is a core responsibility of the State.

The Rector also emphasized the importance of the joint involvement of the university, public authorities, and international partners to ensure the success of this initiative.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Pedrica Saint-Jean, Minister for the Status of Women and Women's Rights, praised this innovative initiative in the country's development process. She advocated for an inclusive approach to decision-making processes, taking into account, in particular, the needs of women.

She also expressed her hope that the implementation of this program would contribute to reducing the structural inequalities that have plagued Haitian society for many years.

The representative of the international professors, Feirouz Megdiche, the student representative, Jean Gardy Milfort, and the Vice-Rector for Research, Innovation, International Relations, and Partnerships, Lubin Santana, each took to the podium to express their satisfaction with the launch of this program. They also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting its implementation and contributing to its success.

IH/ iciHaiti