The idea for a Higher Education Institute was first conceived by Professor Charles Noirot in 1959 and the first studies were carried out by Michel Écochard and his team  in 1961. The foundation stone was laid in 1963 and the Institute formed the core of the future enlarged University of Abidjan. With the University's growth it became part of the expanding city of Abidjan.

Sources:

Écochard Michel. "Une université prévue pour 12'000 étudiants en 1975." Fraternité Matin (Abidjan) (1/3/1968): 5-10. Original typed manuscript of article

"Citta Universitaria di Abidjan". Edilizia Moderna 89-90 (1962): 102-103.