Dr Issa Compaoré, a renowned engineer, teacher, and researcher, has been a driving force behind Burkina Faso's digital transformation for over three decades. Born on December 31, 1970, in Manga, Compaoré pursued his scientific and technical education in Morocco, graduating with an Engineer's degree in Industrial Engineering from the Ecole Mohammadia d'Ingénieurs de Rabat in 1995. He later earned a DEA in Applied Physics from the University of Ouagadougou in 2007.
Compaoré's career as an educator began at the Ecole Nationale des Télécommunications between 1997 and 2000, where he taught physics, quality management, and corporate culture. In 1996, he founded the Cabinet DEMAIN and, in 2000, established the Institut Supérieur de Technologies (IST), which has become a cornerstone for IT education in Burkina Faso. At IST, Compaoré has taught various subjects, including computer science, project management, and industrial maintenance.
Under Compaoré's leadership, IST has grown significantly, expanding from 64 students in 2000 to over 8,000 students across eight sites, with a range of 37 recognized diplomas. The institution has also introduced an online campus, pioneering e-learning in Burkina Faso. IST's alumni include two former ministers responsible for ICT and numerous directors of information systems in public administrations and private companies.
Compaoré's commitment to fostering innovation among students led to the creation of the Quinzaine de l'Innovation de l'IST in 2016, an annual event promoting experimentation, entrepreneurship, and project development. In 2022, IST partnered with the Agence Nationale de Valorisation des Résultats de la Recherche et des Innovations to focus on self-employment through digital innovation and entrepreneurship.
Compaoré's contributions to Burkina Faso's digital ecosystem have been recognized institutionally. Between 2021 and 2022, IST was awarded the title of Chevalier de l'Ordre du Mérite des Arts, des Lettres et de la Communication. Compaoré has also participated in national discussions that led to the establishment of the Semaine nationale du numérique, a prominent event dedicated to technology.
Compaoré's expertise extends beyond IST, as he has contributed to the development of programs for other institutions, including the Université de Koudougou. His experience in ICT and education has been valuable in evaluating projects, such as the Projet d'Appui.
As Burkina Faso prepares for Le Faso Digital 2026, Dr Issa Compaoré's legacy as a pioneer in IT education and innovation is a testament to his dedication to shaping the country's digital future. With a career spanning over thirty years, Compaoré continues to inspire new generations of IT professionals.
Key points
- Dr Issa Compaoré has trained thousands of young Burkinabè in IT, system information, and technological management through IST.
- Compaoré founded IST in 2000, which has grown to include over 8,000 students and 37 recognized diplomas.
- The Quinzaine de l'Innovation de l'IST, initiated by Compaoré in 2016, promotes student innovation, entrepreneurship, and project development.
