The 15e Symposium de Laongo recently came to a close with a training program that saw 15 sculptors being schooled in granite sculpture. The program which ran from November 2 to 9, 2026, was conducted by six professional sculptors who shared their expertise with the trainees. The training was largely practical, allowing the participants to get hands-on experience with the tools and techniques involved in working with granite.
The trainees were taken through the various stages of working with granite, from familiarization with the tools to learning the techniques of cutting and shaping the stone. According to Siriki Ki, the general commissioner of the Symposium, the trainees showed great enthusiasm and commitment to learning, and the trainers were equally commended for their dedication to sharing their knowledge.
The program was organized by the Ministry of Culture, with the aim of building the capacity of cultural practitioners and promoting professionalism in the sector. Saïdou Guigma, the high commissioner of the province of Bassitenga, who represented the governor of the Oubri region, commended the initiative, saying it was a testament to the ministry's commitment to investing in the training and development of cultural talents.
Guigma also emphasized that the development of the cultural sector required more than just promoting artistic events; it also needed investments in training, mentoring, and supporting talents. He encouraged the trainees to make the most of the skills they had acquired and to contribute to the growth of a new generation of sculptors.
The training program was conducted at the Laongo site, which is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. The site has been a hub for artistic and cultural activities, and the program was designed to preserve and promote the traditional skills and knowledge associated with it.
The 15e Symposium de Laongo was a significant event that brought together artists, cultural practitioners, and enthusiasts to celebrate and promote the rich cultural heritage of Burkina Faso. The training program was a key component of the symposium, and it provided a platform for the trainees to learn from experienced artists and to network with their peers.
The conclusion of the 15e Symposium de Laongo marks a significant milestone in the promotion of cultural development in Burkina Faso. The training program has equipped the trainees with new skills and knowledge, and it is expected that they will make a positive impact in the cultural sector. The ministry's initiative has been commended for its focus on building the capacity of cultural practitioners and promoting professionalism in the sector.
Key points
- The 15e Symposium de Laongo trained 15 sculptors in granite sculpture, with a focus on practical skills and techniques.
