Leaders International Academy (LIA) conducted an enriching educational excursion on Thursday as students visited the renowned CEMOI Chocolate Factory, one of Côte d’Ivoire’s leading chocolate producers. The visit aimed to give learners firsthand exposure to the transformation of cocoa, the country’s most celebrated agricultural product, into finished chocolate.
The trip, organized as part of the school’s academic enrichment program, brought together eager students who boarded the school bus early in the morning. According to teachers who accompanied them, the atmosphere was filled with excitement as students engaged in lively conversations about cocoa farming, economic development, and what they expected to see at the factory.
Warm Welcome and Safety Briefing
Upon arrival at CEMOI’s production site in Abidjan, students were greeted by factory staff who offered a comprehensive safety orientation. The briefing highlighted hygiene rules, protective equipment, and procedures that ensure smooth and safe operations within the facility. This introduction set the tone for a structured and informative tour.
From Cocoa Pods to Beans: The Agricultural Beginning
The first segment of the visit took students to the factory’s demonstration plantation area. Here, they were shown how cocoa pods are cultivated, harvested, and opened to reveal the fresh beans. Guides explained the delicate sun-drying process, emphasizing that this natural method is essential for developing the flavor profile that chocolate is known for.
Teachers noted that this segment of the tour helped students appreciate the significant role played by Ivorian farmers in maintaining the nation’s status as the world’s top cocoa producer. Many students expressed surprise at the amount of labor involved in preparing beans before they even reach a factory.
Inside the Factory: A Journey Through Modern Chocolate Production
The next phase of the excursion led the group inside the main production facility, where advanced machinery and human expertise merge to create chocolate products distributed across Africa and beyond. Students observed several key stages:
1. Cleaning and roasting of cocoa beans
2. Grinding to produce cocoa liquor
3. Mixing with cocoa butter and sugar
4. Refining and conching to achieve smooth texture
5. Molding and packaging of finished chocolate bars
The rhythmic sound of machines and the precision of workers gave students a deeper understanding of industrial manufacturing. Many described the experience as “eye-opening” and “impressive,” noting how much technology is required to ensure consistent quality.
A Stop at the Quality-Control Laboratories
One of the highlights of the visit was a guided tour of CEMOI’s laboratories. Scientists demonstrated how chocolate undergoes rigorous testing for taste, texture, and hygiene. Students learned about chemical reactions during roasting, the importance of temperature control, and the standards that guarantee safe, high-quality food products.
Teachers from LIA praised this segment for reinforcing concepts students have learned in science classes, particularly chemical changes and food safety principles.
An Educational Experience Across Disciplines
The entire outing complemented several academic subjects at Leaders International Academy:
Science: Understanding chemical processes involved in roasting and mixing cocoa
Social Studies: Seeing how cocoa production supports the Ivorian economy
Culture & Global Studies: Recognizing chocolate as a local product with worldwide significance
School administrators emphasized that such multidisciplinary learning is fundamental to LIA’s educational mission.
A Sweet Conclusion
The visit ended with a much-anticipated chocolate tasting session. Students described the fresh chocolate as exceptionally flavorful, and many said it helped them appreciate the long journey from cocoa farm to chocolate bar. Conversations with factory employees further inspired students, as workers spoke proudly about their contribution to a globally cherished product.
A Memorable Experience
Leaders International Academy (LIA) officials concluded that the visit achieved its educational objectives while offering students an unforgettable experience. The school expressed gratitude to CEMOI for opening its doors and providing an enriching, real-world learning opportunity.
With renewed appreciation for Ivorian cocoa and its significance, the students returned to school enriched, informed, and carrying memories of a truly meaningful excursion.
Source: LIA Podcast
