<p> Aim for survival for the African Economy</p><p>HEC to the rescue of the African Cotton Industry</p><p>Jouy-en-Josas, 22 March 2007</p><p>The Foundation for World Agriculture and Rural Life (FARM), the African Cotton Producers’ Association and HEC announced plans to launch major training programs for the Cotton Industry at the 24th Franco-African Summit at Cannes.</p><p>The objective of these courses offered in Bobo-Dioulasso in the heart of Burkina Faso’s cotton-growing region, is to contribute to the competitiveness of agriculture and increase farmers’ revenues. Cotton was chosen as the first focus for this training center due to its importance in agricultural systems. Afterwards, work will begin on diversifying production and developing other fields of agricultural study.</p><p>HEC will offer a Specialized Master’s program to around 30 students who already hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), as well as a program of executive education designed for agricultural professionals, elected officials and technicians, and their partners such as cotton producers or administrations.</p><p>From the next academic year, HEC will welcome around 15 directors of professional organizations of African cotton producers.</p><p>“This is a key project for HEC. Not only is it part of our educational mission but it also reflects our commitment to corporate social responsibility,” affirms Bertrand Moingeon, Professor and Associate Dean for HEC Executive Education.</p><p>Founded in 1881, HEC Paris produces ideas and leaders that shape the world of business. HEC Paris offers a unique portfolio of executive education and graduate management programs: HEC Grande Ecole (Master of Science), 20 Specialised Masters, MBA program, Executive MBA, TRIUM and PhD. With 105 permanent faculty, HEC was recently ranked the No1 business school in Europe by the Financial Times (December 2006).</p><p>Press Contact, HEC School of Management Catherine Rousseau  +33 1 39 67 94 23  +33 1 39 67 94 46 [email protected] www.hec.edu</p>