As the 2025 edition of the National Education and Career Guidance Fair (SNEOP), also known as the CEC International Fair, is about to launch, Dr. Lamine Minteh, founder of CEC Afrique Consulting and lead coordinator of the event, shares his vision, goals, and the opportunities this event offers. An exclusive interview with a key player in the promotion of education and professional networking across the continent.
LE CHASSEUR INFOS: Please introduce yourself to our readers and tell us about your organization
Dr. Lamine Minteh: Thank you. My name is Dr. Lamine Minteh. I am the founder and principal consultant of CEC Afrique Consulting. We support students across Africa in accessing quality education, professional internships, and scholarships, both locally and internationally. I am also the lead coordinator of the National Education and Career Guidance Fair (SNEOP), also known as the CEC International Fair for Student Recruitment and Professional Networking.
Dr. Minteh, the name of your event combines two powerful ideas: national education and international networking. What is the true vision behind this initiative?
Thank you. This event, known as SNEOP and also presented as the CEC International Fair, is not just an exhibition. It is a platform for transformation.
Our vision is to build bridges:
• Between students and opportunities
• Between local and international institutions
• Between education and employability
• And between Africa and the rest of the world
Through this initiative, we send a message to every parent, student, school, and institution: you matter, and your future matters. We are creating a space where visibility, access, and collaboration lead to real impact.
What is the idea behind this event and why is it important?
This event is designed to support students, parents, schools, and institutions. We bring together participants from Benin and around the world to share information, build partnerships, offer scholarships, and guide young people in their academic and career paths. Our goal is to help everyone know what to study, where to study, and how to be supported for success.Who are the participants and where do they come from?
We have exhibitors and guests coming from over 13 countries: the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, China, Turkey, Italy, Spain, Cyprus, among others. Locally, all public universities in Benin will be represented, and over 27 high schools have confirmed their attendance. Banks, embassies, admission platforms like MSM Unify, internship networks such as IAESTE, as well as the Ministry of Higher Education will also be present.
How many organizations have registered so far?
As of now, we have 48 confirmed exhibitors, both local and international. This includes universities, embassies, banks, and various educational institutions. This number may still increase in the final days. It’s a clear sign that this event is recognized for its value and impact.
Is it still possible to register?
Yes, last-minute registrations are still open, especially for students and parents. Entry is free for the general public. Institutions wishing to exhibit can still contact us before May 8, and we will do our best to accommodate them.
What can attendees expect from the program?
The program is diverse and rich: panels with experts and government officials, presentations on scholarships and international internships, workshops on career guidance and English proficiency, and a gala evening to strengthen connections. There will also be booths where visitors can interact directly with universities.
Will there be scholarships or funding opportunities?
Yes. Several partner universities will offer tuition discounts or scholarships. Banks and financial institutions will be present to explain how parents can secure financial support for education. MSM Unify will also present integrated solutions for scholarship applications.
What is your message to students and parents?
Come and get informed. This event can change your life. You’ll discover study options, ask questions about visas, meet trustworthy institutions, and hear from people who have succeeded internationally. Parents will receive concrete answers on funding, future prospects, and quality assurances.
What message would you like to send to international institutions?
Now is the time to connect with West Africa. Our fair offers you direct access to motivated students, dynamic schools, and concrete partnership opportunities. We are ready to collaborate. Together, let’s build strong and lasting bridges in education.
