On November 2, 2026, the Burkinabè Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, Pr Adjima Thiombiano, addressed a gathering of workers from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, and the Ministry of Basic Education, Literacy, and Promotion of National Languages. The event was held at the Immeuble de l'Education and featured the traditional hoisting of national colors. Thiombiano expressed his pride in being Burkinabè and emphasized the importance of working towards a better future for the country.
Thiombiano's remarks came in response to recent comments made by new high school graduates from the diaspora, who had expressed negative sentiments about Burkina Faso on social media. The minister stated that anyone who is not satisfied with the country should return to their place of origin. He emphasized that Burkinabè people are proud of their nationality and will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt the country's educational system.
The minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting the educational system from any disruptions, whether from within or outside the country. He cited the Pacte NEKRE, a new initiative aimed at reforming the Burkinabè education system, as an example of the government's efforts to improve the sector. Thiombiano urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure the success of the pact.
On October 17, 2026, the Burkinabè government launched the Pacte NEKRÉ for the Refondation of the Burkinabè School in Kaya. The pact aims to bring coherence to the country's educational system from preschool to university levels. Thiombiano called on all actors to demonstrate greater commitment to making the pact a success and to bring about a real renaissance of the Burkinabè school.
In a separate development, Thiombiano congratulated the Burkinabè Armed Forces on their 66th anniversary, which was celebrated on November 1, 2026. He expressed his gratitude and admiration for the bravery and dedication of the men and women who serve in the armed forces, who work tirelessly to defend the country.
Thiombiano also warned against the presence of "lost children" on university campuses, who might seek to undermine the efforts made by the government to improve the education sector. He emphasized that anyone who comes to study in Burkina Faso must do so with good intentions and respect for the country.
The minister concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and patriotism in the face of challenges. He called on all Burkinabè people to work together to build a better future for the country and to defend its values and institutions.
Key points
- The Burkinabè government has launched the Pacte NEKRE to reform the country's educational system.
- Minister Pr Adjima Thiombiano has warned against disruptions to the education system from new students who make disparaging remarks about Burkina Faso.
- The Burkinabè Armed Forces celebrated their 66th anniversary on November 1, 2026.
