The Delegation of Former Combatants and Military Personnel (DACAM) organized an experience-sharing event with students at University Thomas-Sankara in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on November 9, 2026. The event, held under the Ministry of War and Patriotic Defense, aimed to promote patriotism and resilience among the youth. DACAM's initiative is part of their university tour across Burkina Faso.
The event featured panelists, including General Kouamé Lougué, Colonel-Major Komyaba Pascal Sawadogo, and Colonel-Major Raphaël Salfo Kaboré, who shared their professional experiences and patriotism values with the students. Representing the Minister of War and Patriotic Defense, William Aristide Combary, emphasized that the activity seeks to strengthen the bond between the military and the nation, while transmitting values to the youth.
The event's theme, "Engagement, Resilience, and Patriotism: Testimony of Former Combatants Serving the University Youth," resonated with the students. University Thomas-Sankara's President, Tibi Didier Zoungrana, noted that the theme aligns with the institution's core values, which have helped the university community catch up on academic delays. He encouraged students to attentively listen to the panelists.
Colonel-Major Kouamé Lougué highlighted that the conference is an opportunity for experience-sharing, teaching, and listening to the youth's expectations. He emphasized that the youth must learn from history to build a better future. Student Soré Abdoul Fatao expressed gratitude for the event, citing that it provided a chance to meet influential personalities and learn valuable lessons.
The ceremony included a solemn flag-raising ceremony and a symbolic baobab tree planting. The event is part of DACAM's efforts to promote patriotism and values among Burkina Faso's youth. According to the DACAM, their motto "Honorer le passé, éclairer l'avenir" (Honoring the past, illuminating the future) guides their activities.
The Ministry of War and Patriotic Defense oversees DACAM's activities, which aim to foster a stronger connection between the military and the nation. By sharing their experiences, former military personnel hope to inspire and motivate the youth to contribute significantly to Burkina Faso's development.
The experience-sharing event is a step towards achieving the goals of promoting patriotism and resilience among Burkina Faso's youth. As the country moves towards sovereignty, the role of the youth in shaping its future becomes increasingly important. The event has provided a platform for students to engage with influential figures and gain valuable insights.
Key points
- Students at University Thomas-Sankara learn about patriotism from former military personnel.
