Ouagadougou: The president of the National Union of Private Secular Education Institutions (UNEPEL), Benoit Illy, made a significant statement during the opening of the 16th Congress of the Union, asserting that a nation's sovereignty is reduced by 50% if it does not speak its own language. The event began on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in Ouagadougou, focusing on the theme "Education and sovereignty in Burkina Faso: contribution of the private sector."
According to Burkina Information Agency, Benoit Illy emphasized the importance of language as a fundamental pillar of sovereignty. He underscored that the congress's theme was chosen to align with Burkina Faso's aspirations to redefine its development pillars, highlighting the need for an education system rooted in cultural values to foster a competent and patriotic youth, which he sees as the foundation of true sovereignty.
Illy expressed that the congress serves as a vital opportunity to review the Union's actions over the past three years, adapt foundational texts for improved governance, and renew governing bodies democratically. He noted that despite challenges, including a war context, UNEPEL successfully received over 90% of tuition arrears for affected students between 2014 and 2024 within a three-year period, with membership increasing from 1,411 to 1,500.
He also highlighted improvements in the consideration of the private sector during exams and changes in student assignments to private schools. Additionally, UNEPEL contributed 400 million CFA francs to peace efforts.
The 16th UNEPEL Congress, running from July 24 to 26, 2025, features participation from employer organizations in Benin, Mali, Niger, Congo, and Russia. Luc Y©, the Ministry's mission officer for education, acknowledged UNEPEL as the primary umbrella organization for education in Burkina Faso, emphasizing its significant role in enhancing the educational landscape.
UNEPEL, established in 1972, unites private education promoters in Burkina Faso, providing a public service vital to the nation's educational framework.