On September 21, 2026, the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, welcomed the laureates of the "HAKILI Mousso" national science competition for young girls at the Presidential Palace in Koulouba. The competition, which aims to identify and encourage talented young girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), was attended by the Minister-Counselor of the President, Dr. Floriane Ouedraogo/Zongo. The meeting marked the beginning of the new academic year for the young laureates.
During the meeting, President Traoré delivered a masterclass on the importance of scientific disciplines in the country's development. He congratulated the young girls on their achievements and provided guidance on the value of hard work, self-confidence, and perseverance. The President emphasized that the country needs talented individuals in various scientific fields, including engineering, physics, and astronomy. He encouraged the young girls to set goals and strive to achieve them.
President Traoré explained that the "HAKILI Mousso" competition is part of a broader strategy to promote elite education and encourage women to pursue careers in specific scientific fields. He stressed that this approach is not about promoting a foreign policy of gender opposition but rather about fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. The President reiterated his commitment to developing Burkina Faso's human resources, which he believes is the key to the country's growth.
Inès Marie Fabiolas Nikiema, the top chemistry student in the "HAKILI Mousso" competition, expressed her confidence and enthusiasm after meeting with President Traoré. She dreams of pursuing a career in aeronautics and contributing to her country's development. Nikiema pledged to work hard and become a role model for other young girls. The President's words of encouragement and guidance had a profound impact on the young laureates.
The "HAKILI Mousso" competition has become a platform for identifying and nurturing talented young girls in Burkina Faso. The initiative aims to bridge the gap in STEM education and provide opportunities for women to excel in these fields. By promoting science and technology, the government hopes to drive economic growth and development in the country. The competition has sparked a renewed interest in STEM education among young girls.
The meeting between President Traoré and the "HAKILI Mousso" laureates highlights the government's commitment to investing in human capital and promoting education. The President's emphasis on the importance of scientific disciplines and his encouragement to the young girls reflect his vision for a more prosperous and innovative Burkina Faso. The country's future growth and development depend on the skills and talents of its young people.
The Presidential Palace in Koulouba served as a unique learning environment for the young laureates, who benefited from the President's expertise and experience. The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation among the young girls, who are now eager to make a positive impact in their country. The "HAKILI Mousso" competition has become a symbol of hope and opportunity for young girls in Burkina Faso.
Key points
- President Ibrahim Traoré encourages young girls to pursue careers in STEM fields to drive Burkina Faso's development.
- The "HAKILI Mousso" competition aims to identify and nurture talented young girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
- The government is committed to investing in human capital and promoting education to drive economic growth and development.
