AfriCan Futurale Foresight Forum
AfriCan: The Strategic Foresight Forum for the Development of Canada-Africa Relations (Benin)
Strategy, Opportunities, Challenges, and Threats
Introduction:
AfriCan is a strategic reflection forum created with the aim of strengthening and developing relations between Canada and Africa (Benin), with a particular focus on the opportunities and challenges of bilateral partnerships. This forum brings together key actors from the political, economic, and academic spheres, as well as civil society leaders, within a framework of multilateral cooperation aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable development on both continents.
Objectives of the AfriCan Forum:
The main objective of AfriCan is to propose innovative and pragmatic solutions to support economic growth and sustainable development in Africa, while strengthening ties with Canada. This forum allows for reflection on common strategies to address global issues, including:
- Strengthening economic partnerships: Canada wishes to play a catalytic role in key sectors of African development, such as agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and technology.
- Promoting innovation and technology: Canada being a leader in innovation, the forum seeks to explore partnerships in the fields of new technologies and start-ups.
- Supporting the energy transition: Africa (Benin), rich in natural resources, and Canada, a pioneer in green technologies, can collaborate on sustainable energy solutions.
- Fostering cultural and educational exchanges: Cultural and educational cooperation is at the heart of relations between the two continents, with academic mobility initiatives and exchange programs.
Characteristics of AfriCan:
- Multidimensionality: The AfriCan forum covers a wide range of sectors, from governance and human rights to the economy, education, and technologies. This holistic approach allows for integrated development thinking and the creation of synergies between different areas of action.
- Sustainable and inclusive prosperity: One of the forum’s fundamental principles is to promote economic development that benefits all, with an emphasis on social inclusion and the reduction of inequalities. This includes particular support for women, youth, and marginalized communities.
- Dialogue and cooperation: The forum constitutes a platform for bilateral dialogue between Canadian authorities, African institutions, businesses, NGOs, as well as citizens of both continents. This dialogue serves to identify concrete solutions to common challenges and to formulate strategies adapted to local contexts.
- Shared governance: The forum’s governance model is based on cooperation and co-construction. Decisions are made collectively, with the active participation of stakeholders from both sides.
- Monitoring and evaluation of initiatives: In order to measure the impact of projects and established partnerships, the forum puts in place rigorous monitoring mechanisms, thus ensuring continuous evaluation and the adjustment of development strategies.
- Valorization of public-private partnerships: One of AfriCan’s great strengths is its emphasis on public-private partnerships (PPPs). These alliances are seen as essential drivers of development, making it possible to mobilize financial, human, and technological resources for large-scale projects.
- Strengthening local capacities: The forum emphasizes the development of local skills, notably through vocational training, workshops, and exchange programs, allowing African actors to better prepare for development challenges.
- Geopolitical inclusivity: Although the focus is on Canada-Africa (Benin) relations, AfriCan also envisions a global approach, with a geopolitical dimension that takes into account global issues such as climate change, conflicts, and international governance.
Key Themes Addressed at the Forum:
Economic transformation of Africa:
Exploring alternative economic models to accelerate the transformation of Africa (Benin), notably through economic diversification and the development of sectors such as industry, intra-African trade, and local entrepreneurship.
Access to international markets:
Implementing strategies aimed at facilitating African companies’ access to global markets, while promoting the competitiveness of Canadian companies on the continent.
Education and skills development:
One of the key axes of the forum is cooperation in education and vocational training, in order to equip young Africans with the skills necessary to actively participate in economic development.
Climate change and sustainability:
Faced with the challenges of climate change, AfriCan analyzes the specific challenges of Africa (Benin), while proposing solutions for a green and sustainable energy transition, as well as environmental protection initiatives.
Security and governance:
Addressing issues of democratic governance, regional security, and cooperation in peace and conflict management, drawing on Canada’s experience in these areas.
Forum Format
The forum is structured around four panels (Economy, Education, Trade, Sustainable Environment), integrating a strategic foresight approach to develop a strategic vision and probable scenarios for the development of Canada-Benin relations. The objective is to explore concrete pathways to strengthen bilateral relations. The text is written in French, structured to be clear and professional, with an academic touch adapted to the context of Futurale College and your interests in foresight
Forum Program: Strengthening the Future of Canada-Benin Relations through Strategic Foresight
Organizer: Futurale College, Canada and the Futurale College Office in Benin.
Date: August 2025
Location: Benin
Theme: “Building a Sustainable Partnership: A Foresight Vision for Canada-Benin Relations”
Language: French, English
AfriCan Futurale Foresight Forum FAQ
Welcome to the Futurale Foresight Forum! We’re thrilled to have you join our community. This FAQ will help you navigate the Forum and answer common questions. If you need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our moderators or fellow members.
How do I register for the Forum?
To register, click the “Door” icon next to the picture of the Forum.Â
I'm experiencing technical issues. How can I get help?
Visit the “Technical Support” section on our website for troubleshooting tips. If the issue persists, please contact our technical support team at contact@futuralecollege.ca.
When and where is the Futurale Foresight Forum 2025?
The Futurale Foresight Forum 2025 will take place in August 2025. The forum will be held in a hybrid format, with both online and in-person sessions.
What is the format of the Futurale Foresight Forum?
The forum will feature a combination of online and face-to-face (FTF) sessions.
What does registration include?
Given the hybrid format, various ticket types are available to cater to individual preferences. Details are provided on the registration page.
Can I pay for registration on the day of the event?
Registration is open until August 1, 2025. We encourage early registration to receive pre-forum content and important updates. Online payment is preferred for better event preparation.
If I cannot attend the Forum at the last minute, can I get a refund?
The event pricing is designed to be accessible, and no refunds will be processed. However, if you cannot attend in person, you will have access to on-demand content during and after the event.
I have completed my registration. How do I access the virtual event?
Registered individuals will receive an email with login information approximately two weeks before the event. Reminders will also be sent directly from the platform a few days and hours before the event starts.
What technology should I use for the virtual sessions?
A desktop or laptop computer with Google Chrome is recommended. Tablets and mobile devices may require an app installation. A high-speed internet connection is advisable.
What languages are spoken at the Forum?
The official languages of the Futurale Foresight Forum are English and French. Additional languages may be offered based on funding availability.
I am a sponsor or individual donor. How can I support the 2025 Forum?
Please contact us at contact@futuralecollege.ca to explore meaningful ways to support the Forum.
When can I register for the Forum? What is the registration cost? What does the registration fee include?
The Futurale Foresight Forum is a forward-thinking hybrid event that brings together global experts, innovators, and leaders to explore the future of key industries, societal trends, and global megatrends. The forum’s hybrid format – combining both in-person and online participation – is designed to increase accessibility and engagement, ensuring that a diverse audience can attend regardless of location.
The hybrid model allows for dynamic discussions across physical and digital spaces, enabling more voices to contribute to shaping the future. Futurale Forum focuses on pressing issues, from technological innovation and environmental sustainability to economic transformation and societal evolution, creating a shared space where participants can anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and build resilience.
Typical Activities at a Strategic Foresight Forum:
- Keynote Speeches: Presentations by futurists and experts on future trends and challenges.
- Panel Discussions: Expert panels discussing specific topics, such as technology, climate change, or geopolitical shifts.
- Workshops and Breakout Sessions: Interactive sessions for participants to collaborate and brainstorm ideas.
- Scenario Planning Exercises: Collaborative exercises to develop potential future scenarios.
- Future-Oriented Research Presentations: Sharing the latest research findings on emerging trends.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept online payments via credit cards (Mastercard and Visa). This is the preferred payment method for non-Canadian residents as well.
How can I get a certificate of participation?
Certificates will be issued at the end of the Forum to those who have properly registered and actively participated in sessions.
Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
No, registration transfers are not accepted, and registration fees are non-refundable.
Will there be networking opportunities during the Forum?
Yes! The Forum offers various networking opportunities, including dedicated sessions, coffee breaks, and social events. Check the program for specific timings.
What are the sponsorship categories for this Forum?
We offer various sponsorship categories with unique benefits:
- Main Sponsor: Maximum visibility, including logo integration and exclusive presence.
- Platinum Sponsor: Prime visibility across all communication channels and participation in exclusive activities.
- Gold Sponsor: Significant visibility on communication materials and opportunities to sponsor thematic sessions.
- Silver Sponsor: Extensive visibility across digital and print materials, with options to sponsor virtual events.
- Bronze Sponsor: Visibility on the website and in brochures, with opportunities to sponsor interactive activities.
- Media Partner Sponsor: Promotion through partner media channels in exchange for visibility at the Forum.
- Collaborative Sponsor: Targeted visibility and opportunity to contribute to specific initiatives.
For detailed information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at contact@futuralecollege.ca.
What should I do in case of technical issues during the virtual Forum?
If you encounter technical problems, please contact our technical support team via the live chat on the website.
Forum Panel Program
Objective:
- This forum aims to explore the opportunities and challenges of bilateral relations between Canada and Benin through a strategic foresight approach. By bringing together experts, decision-makers, and stakeholders, we will develop a strategic vision for the future, with probable scenarios and concrete pathways to strengthen economic, educational, commercial, and environmental cooperation.
Day 1: Opening and Economic & Education Panels
08:30 - 09:00: Welcome and Registration
- Registration of participants and distribution of badges.
- Welcome coffee.
09:00 - 09:30: Opening Ceremony
- Welcome address: Daniel Delfani, CEO, Futurale College.
- Opening speech: Pierre Sahgui, Representative of Futurale College.
- Address: [Name], a Representative of Global Affairs Canada.
- Presentation of the forum’s foresight framework: A strategic vision for 2035.
09:30 - 11:00: Panel 1 - Economic Perspectives: Opportunities and Challenges
- Theme: How can economic dynamics shape prosperous Canada-Benin cooperation?
- Objective: Identify promising economic sectors (agriculture, tourism, energy) and anticipate trends for inclusive growth.
- Moderator: [Name], Economist, Futurale College.
- Panelists:
- [Name], Expert in Economic Development, Benin.
- [Name], Representative of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Commerce.
- [Name], Specialist in Economic Foresight, Canada.
- Format:
- Presentations (10 min per panelist): Analysis of current trends and future scenarios (e.g., investments in Benin’s agro-industry).
- Foresight discussion: Scenarios for 2030-2035 (e.g., partnerships in renewable energy).
- Q&A with the public (20 min).
- Paths explored: Bilateral financing, free trade zones, and integration of Beninese SMEs into Canadian value chains.
11:00 - 11:15: Break
Coffee Break
11:15 - 12:45: Panel 2 - Education: Training Tomorrow's Leaders
- Theme: How can education serve as a lever for Canada-Benin relations?
- Objective: Develop educational partnerships to strengthen human capacities and anticipate future skills needs.
- Moderator: [Name], Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Futurale College.
- Panelists:
- [Name], University Rector, Benin.
- [Name], Specialist in Educational Exchanges, Universities Canada.
- [Name], Expert in Educational Foresight, Canada.
- Format:
- Presentations (10 min per panelist): Current situation and foresight vision (e.g., digitalization of education).
- Discussion: Scenarios for 2035 (e.g., joint programs in humanities, bilateral scholarships).
- Q&A with the public (20 min).
- Paths explored: Student exchanges, joint online training, and certifications like the CFC for Beninese teachers.
12:45 - 14:00: Break
Lunch and Networking
14:00 - 15:30: Interactive Workshop – Strategic Foresight Methods
- Facilitator: [Name], Foresight Specialist, Futurale College (inspired by the expertise of Daniel Delfani).
- Objective: Train participants in horizon scanning and scenario planning for bilateral relations.
- Activity:
- Visioning exercise: Imagining Canada-Benin relations in 2040.
- Development of mini-scenarios for each panel.
Deliverable: Summary of ideas for integration into the final report.
15:30 - 15:45: Break
Coffee Break
15:45 - 17:00: Plenary Session – Day 1 Synthesis
- Moderator: [Name], Futurale College.
- Content:
- Summary of the economic and education panels.
- Presentation of preliminary scenarios from the workshop.
- Open discussion: Priorities for bilateral cooperation.
- Closing: Announcement of the Day 2 program.
17:00: Networking Cocktail
- Opportunity for participants to interact with panellists and decision-makers.
Day 2: Trade and Sustainable Environment Panels
08:30 - 09:00: Welcome and Coffee
- Registration of participants and distribution of badges.
- Welcome coffee.
09:00 - 10:30: Panel 3 - Trade: Towards a Dynamic Partnership
- Theme: How to strengthen trade exchanges for mutual benefit?
- Objective: Identify trade opportunities (e.g., agricultural products, Beninese crafts) and anticipate future barriers.
- Moderator: [Name], Expert in International Trade, Futurale College.
- Panelists:
- [Name], Representative of the Ministry of Commerce, Benin.
- [Name], Member of the Canadian Exporters Association.
- [Name], Specialist in Commercial Foresight, Canada.
- Format:
- Presentations (10 min per panelist): Analysis of trade flows and trends (e.g., digital commerce).
- Foresight discussion: Scenarios for 2035 (e.g., bilateral free trade agreements).
- Q & A with the public (20 min).
- Paths explored: Customs simplification, promotion of Beninese products in Canada, and digital platforms for SMEs.
10:30 - 10:45: Break
Coffee Break
10:45 - 12:15: Panel 4 - Sustainable Environment: Cooperating for a Green Future
- Theme: How can the two countries collaborate for sustainable development?
- Objective: Propose joint environmental initiatives to address climate challenges.
- Moderator: [Name], Sustainability Specialist, Futurale College.
- Panelists:
- [Name], Environment Expert, Benin.
- [Name], Representative of Environment Canada.
- [Name], Specialist in Environmental Foresight, Canada.
- Format:
- Presentations (10 min per panelist): Climate challenges and opportunities (e.g., Beninese agroforestry).
- Foresight discussion: Scenarios for 2035 (e.g., partnerships in green energy).
- Q & A with the public (20 min).
- Paths explored: Technology transfers for sustainable agriculture, reforestation projects, and joint environmental education.
12:15 - 13:30: Break
Lunch Break
13:30 - 15:00: Round Table – A Strategic Vision for 2035
- Moderator: [Name], Futurale College.
- Participants: Representatives from the four panels and key stakeholders.
- Objective: Synthesize foresight scenarios and prioritize bilateral actions.
- Format:
- Presentation of final scenarios by panel (5 min each).
- Discussion: Convergence of priorities (e.g., education to support sustainable trade).
- Development of a preliminary roadmap.
- Deliverable: Shared strategic vision document.
15:00 - 15:15: Break
Coffee Break
15:15 - 16:30: Closing Ceremony
- Final Synthesis: [Name], Academic Director, Futurale College.
- Commitments:
- Announcement of next steps (e.g., creation of a bilateral committee).
- Symbolic presentation of the foresight report to representatives of both countries.
- Closing Remarks:
- [Name], Representative of the Beninese government.
- [Name], Representative of the Canadian government.
- Acknowledgements: Recognition of partners and participants.
16:30: Closing Reception
- Opportunity for informal exchange and celebration of new perspectives.
Strategic Foresight Approach:
- Each panel uses foresight tools (horizon scanning, scenario planning, visioning) to anticipate dynamics up to 2026.
- Discussions are based on current data (e.g., 2026 trade exchanges: $13 million CAD) and forecasts (e.g., growth of the Beninese education sector).
- Inspired by the foresight expertise of figures like Daniel Delfani, the forum integrates rigorous methods for a strategic vision.
Participants:
- Representatives of governments (Canada, Benin).
- Academics and foresight experts from Futurale College and Beninese institutions.
- Economic, educational, commercial, and environmental actors from both countries.
- Students and alumni of the CFC program, strengthening the link with your projects.
Deliverables:
- Foresight Report: “Canada-Benin Relations 2026: Scenarios and Roadmap”.
- Bilateral Network: Creation of a working group to implement identified pathways.
- Educational Content: Integration of conclusions into CFC courses (e.g., modules on international cooperation).