The EDTECH FASO FORUM, a premier event for education technology in Burkina Faso, is set to hold its second edition from November 12 to 13, 2026, at the International Handicraft Fair of Ouagadougou (SIAO). This year's theme, "Digitalization of Education: From Innovation to Implementation, Building Sustainable Solutions for Inclusive Growth," reflects the country's efforts to leverage technology in enhancing education. The forum aims to promote tailored digital solutions for Burkina Faso's education system, highlighting local innovations and fostering their implementation for more accessible and inclusive education.
According to Ollé Patrice Kam, National Coordinator of the Forum, educational technologies, or EdTech, are crucial for improving access to education, learning quality, and education system governance. Despite existing innovators and promising initiatives in Burkina Faso, there is a shortage of platforms to showcase, structure, and adapt these solutions to the actual needs of educational institutions. The first edition of the forum, held in June 2023, brought together hundreds of participants from public and private sectors, innovators, and education stakeholders.
This second edition seeks to further enhance the entrepreneurial aspect of innovations, making digital innovation a concrete contribution to education reform rather than a fleeting trend. The initiative aligns with ongoing reforms in Burkina Faso's education system, particularly the integration of Information and Communication Technology in Education (TICE) from preschool to primary levels. Locally designed and developed digital tools can improve learning and facilitate pedagogical continuity, especially during disruptions.
The forum, under the presidency of Minister of Basic Education, Literacy, and Promotion of National Languages, Jacques Sosthène Dingara, and co-presided by Minister of Digital Transition, Posts, and Electronic Communications, Dr. Aminata Zerbo/Sabane, will feature panels, exhibitions, and training sessions. Over 20 EdTech innovations are expected, with discussions involving public decision-makers, innovators, private companies, and technical and financial partners.
Key discussions will focus on public policies and EdTech innovation, financing of educational digital solutions, and models for scaling up innovations. A national EdTech competition, open to individuals, teams, startups, and organizations, aims to identify solutions addressing real education needs. With a participation fee of 25,000 FCFA, candidates can submit their projects until November 1, 2026. Five finalists will present their innovations during the Night of Laureates on November 13.
The competition's evaluation criteria include the solution's relevance to educational needs, maturity for a pilot phase, economic viability, and contribution to inclusive growth. Seven special prizes will be awarded, thanks to sponsors. The event also offers exhibition stands and potential partnerships for innovators to showcase and further develop their solutions.
The EDTECH FASO FORUM serves as a critical platform for stakeholders to converge, innovate, and strategize on integrating technology in education. With an expected turnout of diverse participants, the event is poised to catalyze meaningful advancements in Burkina Faso's education sector through digital innovation.
Key points
- The EDTECH FASO FORUM will focus on promoting tailored digital solutions for Burkina Faso's education system.
- The event aims to foster local innovations and their implementation for more accessible and inclusive education.
- A national EdTech competition will identify solutions addressing real education needs in Burkina Faso.
