Tom Erdimi, Chad’s Minister of Higher Education, has resigned from his position after serving in the role since 2022, according to an official government statement released on March 5, 2026.
The announcement was made through a communiqué signed by Allah-Maye Halina, Prime Minister of Chad, confirming that Erdimi stepped down voluntarily. The statement also commended the outgoing minister for his service and contributions to the country’s higher education sector.
Second Minister to Resign Since Deby Took Power
Erdimi becomes the second serving minister to leave office since Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno assumed leadership of the Central African nation in April 2021 following the death of former president Idriss Déby.
His resignation marks a notable development within the government, which has been navigating a political transition since the current administration came to power.
Former Rebel Leader Turned Government Minister
Before joining the government, Erdimi was known as a former rebel leader and political opponent of the late President Idriss Déby. His appointment as Minister of Higher Education in October 2022 followed the Doha Peace Agreements, which were signed between Chad’s transitional government and various political and armed opposition groups.
The agreements aimed to foster national dialogue and reintegrate opposition figures into the country’s political process, paving the way for reforms and political stabilization.
Key Reforms in Higher Education
During his tenure, Erdimi oversaw several reforms aimed at modernising Chad’s higher education system. Among the most significant initiatives was the digitisation of university admission procedures at the University of N’Djamena, the country’s leading public university.
The ministry also advanced the establishment of new universities and research institutes, part of broader efforts to expand academic access and strengthen research capacity across the country.
Education analysts say these reforms were designed to improve transparency in admissions, expand infrastructure, and support the development of skilled professionals in key sectors of the Chadian economy.
Interim Leadership Appointed
Following Erdimi’s departure, the government has appointed a permanent secretary to serve in an acting capacity at the Ministry of Higher Education while authorities determine a permanent replacement.
Officials have not provided further details regarding the reasons behind Erdimi’s resignation or the timeline for naming a new minister.
The development comes at a time when Chad continues to implement political and institutional reforms aimed at stabilising the country and strengthening governance after years of conflict and political transition.
