2nd Edition of ‘Begudo School Event’s’ Highlights Education’s Role in Combating Irregular Migration


Ouagadougou: The President of the special delegation of the commune of Bgudo, Comrade Moussa W. Oudraogo, presided over the 2nd edition of ‘Begudo School Event’s’ on Saturday, August 23, 2026, at the ARBI cultural center in Dangagou, sector 04 of Bgudo. The event aimed to promote the schooling of children and raise awareness about the risks associated with irregular migration.



According to Burkina Information Agency, the activity was organized by the Association for the Promotion of Art and Culture of Nakamb (APAC-N), in collaboration with the Association of Nationals of Bgudo in Italy (ARBI). The theme for this year’s event was “Together for Culture, Unity and Development.” It was held under the patronage of Naaba Tanga II of Bgudo, chaired by the PDS Comrade of the Bgudo municipality, and sponsored by Euro Multi Service, Procureur Smart Store, and EZIF.



The ceremony brought together local authorities, education services, parents, young people, and cultural figures. It featured performances of traditional and modern dances, theater, and a fashion show in kokodonda fabric. Additionally, a tree-planting event was held within the grounds of the cultural center to promote environmental sustainability.



The initiative was led by the president of APAC-N, Comrade Guillaume Souni, with Comrade Abdoul Salam Bara, president of ARBI, as the guest of honor. Comrade Bara emphasized the necessity of acquiring education and skills before considering any migration journey, stating that schooling is fundamental for socio-professional integration, both locally and abroad.



Comrade Bara urged parents to prioritize education as the best investment for their children. He warned young people against the notion that school is unnecessary for those aspiring to move to Europe, highlighting that lack of qualifications can lead to precarious employment and increased vulnerability.



Furthermore, the president of ARBI advocated for the expansion of cultural and educational activities in Burkina Faso, to maintain connections between children in the country and Burkinabe nationals living abroad. He called on educational authorities and local stakeholders to support the initiative for its sustainability and potential expansion to other municipalities.



Comrade Guillaume Souni reiterated that the event’s message is clear: education and training are essential for the future. He expressed gratitude to ARBI for its ongoing support and praised the involvement of parents, young people, and volunteers.



The representative of the Boulgou Provincial Coordinator of Culture, Comrade Ousmane Dabr, commended the initiative’s significance while expressing concern over the low participation of boys in kokodonda cloth dyeing activities. He encouraged parents to motivate boys to participate more actively, similar to the girls.



The organizers of the event aim to combine awareness-raising, cultural expression, and civic engagement through reforestation to bring young people closer to education and their cultural heritage, while also informing them about the dangers of irregular migration.



In conclusion, they appealed to local authorities, education services, schools, and community associations to collaborate in ensuring the event’s continuation. Plans are already underway for the 3rd edition, with aspirations to expand it into a province-wide event.