The National Education Fund (FNE) has a new leader. Jefnie Toussaint officially took over as director on Monday, August 17, 2026, during an installation ceremony held at the institution’s headquarters.
The ceremony was attended by several senior government officials, including Minister of Planning and External Cooperation Dr. Sandra Paulemon and Minister of Haitians Living Abroad Kathia Verdier.
Toussaint succeeds Elysé Colagène, who headed the FNE for nearly 11 months.
In her first remarks as director, Toussaint laid out an agenda centered on action, accountability and results. She said she plans to strengthen the institution’s governance, improve the way its resources are managed and speed up the implementation of education projects across the country.
Modernizing the FNE’s operations and making its administration more efficient will also be among her priorities.
“Being entrusted with the leadership of the National Education Fund is a great honor, but above all, it is a solemn commitment to the Republic,” Toussaint said.
She expressed her appreciation to Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé for the confidence he placed in her and thanked Education and Vocational Training Minister Vijonet Déméro for his support. She also acknowledged the efforts of government officials working to improve Haiti’s education system.
Toussaint struck a particularly direct tone when outlining her approach to the job.
“This is not the time for speeches, but for work and results,” she said.
Her agenda will focus on integrity, transparency, efficiency, innovation and stronger institutional discipline. She also plans to pursue new partnerships and make more strategic use of the FNE’s available resources.
Getting the institution’s employees fully engaged will be another key part of her strategy. Toussaint said she wants to unite staff around common goals and help build an FNE that is more efficient, credible and results-driven.
For Toussaint, investing in education goes far beyond government spending. She considers it a strategic investment in Haiti’s future, with direct implications for economic growth, social cohesion, stability and responsible citizenship.
“Every child who gains access to quality education represents a victory for the Republic and a promise for our country’s future,” she said.
