United by a shared commitment to strengthening health systems, the researchers participated in a tailored program designed to enhance their expertise, encourage reciprocal learning, and promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices between partner institutions in Canada and Benin.
The cohort brought together eight experts with complementary backgrounds in anesthesiology and critical care, cardiology, pulmonology, radiology, epidemiology, public health, health economics, and the sociology of health. The group included Professors Ernest Yémalin Stéphane Ahounou, Virginie Mongbo, Gildas Agodokpessi, Léopold Houétondji Codjo, and Djidjoho Joël Arnaud Sonou, along with Drs. Codjo Austher Ayi Megnanglo, Charles Patrick Makoutodé, and Bédié Vignon. Together, they represent a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to advancing health care, research, and medical education in Benin while fostering scientific exchange and multidisciplinary collaboration.
“I can now teach in a more interactive, modern, and internationally aligned way. I also feel better prepared to introduce educational innovations within my institution.”
Dr. Bédié Vignon
— BCDI 2030 Scholar, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Reflecting on his experience, Dr. Bédié Vignon said, "I can now teach in a more interactive, modern, and internationally aligned way. I also feel better prepared to introduce educational innovations within my institution."
During their four- to eight-week stay, the scholars participated in specialized training tailored to their respective fields of expertise through the BCDI 2030 program, funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by a consortium led by Colleges and Institutes Canada and Universities Canada. The program included clinical observerships at University of Ottawa-affiliated health care institutions, where they explored different approaches to patient care, health system organization, interprofessional collaboration, and clinical innovation. Throughout their stay, they also exchanged knowledge with Canadian physicians, researchers, and health professionals on the shared challenges facing health systems.
This visit reflects the shared commitment of the University of Ottawa and its Beninese partners to advancing collaboration built on knowledge sharing, mutual respect, and reciprocal learning. While the scholars benefited from their training in Canada, they also shared their own clinical expertise, professional experience, and insights into the realities of Benin's health system, enriching discussions and collaboration with their Canadian colleagues.
“The way I approach both patients and learners will be different. I have also gained new skills that I look forward to applying in my clinical practice when I return to Benin.”
Dr. Charles Patrick Makoutodé
— BCDI 2030 Scholar, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Professor Gildas Agodokpessi noted, "This experience has led me to reassess my approach to managing my health care team, as well as my approach to hospital supervision." Likewise, Dr. Charles Patrick Makoutodé reflected on the impact the experience will have on his future practice: "The way I approach both patients and learners will be different. I have also gained new skills that I look forward to applying in my clinical practice when I return to Benin."
Upon returning home, the researchers will apply the knowledge, skills, and professional networks developed during their time in Canada to strengthen teaching, research, and health services within their respective institutions. Through the BCDI 2030 program, the University of Ottawa continues to foster international collaboration that builds capacity, advances innovation, and strengthens health systems through shared learning and lasting institutional partnerships.