The former Djeva industrial site in Monthey could soon host the future building of the Intercantonal Vocational School of Chemistry (EPIC), marking an important new stage for chemistry and technology training in Valais.

The plan under discussion would give EPIC a modern, unified facility that better meets its growing needs. Today, nearly 180 students from across French‑speaking Switzerland—two‑thirds of them from Valais—are trained as chemical laboratory technicians, production technologists in the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, and polymechanics.

Currently spread across several separate locations within and around Monthey’s chemical site, EPIC faces space and coordination challenges. Bringing all teaching and workshop activities together on one site would enable stronger interdisciplinarity, smoother logistics, and a more collaborative learning environment.

The historic Djeva building, home to a century of industrial activity, could provide a symbolic and practical foundation for this transformation once renovated. Its location and heritage would strengthen ties between education, industry, and Monthey’s innovation ecosystem—a region already known for its concentration of chemical and biotechnological expertise.

For the city of Monthey and for the students who will shape the next generation of lab professionals, this potential move represents a strategic investment in the future of applied science and technical training in Valais.

Source : Le Nouvelliste

Picture : Copyright – EPIC Monthey