Ouagadougou: The 3rd edition of the Post-School Examination Information and Guidance Days (JIO-PES) in the Nando region officially opened its doors on Monday at the Koudougou Provincial High School, AIB observed on site.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event, organized under the theme "New High School Graduates and Strategies for Choosing a Field of Study for Successful Guidance," aims to support new graduates in their transition to higher education. The Regional Directorate of Secondary Education and Vocational and Technical Training (DRESFPT) of Nando organized this three-day meeting to serve as a platform for dialogue among education stakeholders.
Universities, training institutes, grandes ecoles, guidance counselors, students, and parents of students gathered to deliberate on the academic and professional future of new high school graduates. The opening ceremony featured the performance of the national anthem and included speeches from key figures such as the President of the Special Delegation (PDS) of Koudougou, Amedee Pare, along with the organizing committee and event partners.
Lucien Guenguere, the Secretary General of the region, presided over the ceremony on behalf of the Governor and delivered a speech from the Minister of Secondary Education and Vocational and Technical Training, Professor Mounoumi Zoungrana. The ministerial message highlighted the significant role of information and educational guidance in Burkina Faso's socioeconomic development and the improvement of youth employability. The minister emphasized that selecting a field of study should be a thoughtful and responsible decision, rather than a mere formality or a response to trends.
The minister's representative advised new graduates to align their passions and personal abilities with the actual needs of Burkina Faso's job market when determining their career paths. The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of booths set up by the various higher education institutions present. The program, scheduled to run until July 15, 2026, includes conferences, personalized advice sessions, and direct meetings between prospective students and representatives from training programs.
Through this initiative, educational authorities aim to provide a local framework to ensure relevant and successful guidance for learners.