In Makokou, the capital of Gabon's Ogooué-Ivindo province, a ceremony was held to mark the graduation of the first promotion of students from the École provinciale de formation d’action sanitaire et sociale (EPFASS). The event, which took place on November 1, 2026, was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the governor of the province, Christiane Leckat, and representatives from the local administration.
The ceremony was placed under the patronage of Huguette Yvonne Nyana Ekoume épouse Awori Onanga, the president of the Senate. Her representative, Sylvère-Landry Boubala, expressed gratitude to the organizers and the graduates for entrusting her with the role of patron. Boubala emphasized that the ceremony marked the culmination of the vision of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who initiated the rehabilitation of the EPFASS.
During the ceremony, diplomas were awarded to graduates who completed their studies as nurse assistants and specialized educators. According to the director of EPFASS, médecin colonel Jean-Bernard Adikandembo, 371 students enrolled in the nurse assistant program were all declared admitted, while 90 out of 97 students in the social work program were also admitted.
Adikandembo congratulated the graduates on their achievement and encouraged them to uphold the values of ethics, audacity, and solidarity in their future work. He emphasized that these values are essential in addressing the challenges faced by the health and social sectors.
On behalf of the graduates, Constant Iyaté expressed gratitude to President Oligui Nguema for his initiatives in promoting youth education and training in Gabon. Iyaté also thanked the president of the Senate for her support and promised that the graduates would be dedicated medical and social professionals serving the nation.
The graduates are now expected to apply their skills in the health and social sectors, which face a shortage of qualified personnel. This development is seen as a significant step towards addressing the needs of the population and improving the quality of services provided.
The event marked a significant milestone in the history of EPFASS, which aims to provide quality education and training to young Gabonese. The institution's efforts are aligned with the government's vision to develop the country's human resources and improve the overall well-being of its citizens.
Key points
- The EPFASS graduation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the development of Gabon's health and social sectors.
- The graduates are expected to play a crucial role in addressing the needs of the population and improving the quality of services provided.
- The event is a testament to the government's commitment to promoting youth education and training in Gabon.