Guuriko: The Regional Directorate of Preschool, Primary and Non-Formal Education (DREPPNF) of Guiriko proceeded with the official launch of the 2025-2026 sports and cultural season in the Guiriko region. The event took place at the Wobi stadium under the chairmanship of the Minister of Basic Education, Literacy and Promotion of National Languages, Mr. Jacques Sosthene Dingara, and the patronage of the Minister of Sports, Youth and Employment, Mr. Roland Somda.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the theme for the season is "Sport and culture in schools, a lever for unity, education and cohesion for a high-performing and resilient school." The ceremony gathered the 42 Basic Education Districts (CEB) of the Guiriko region to promote sport and culture in schools.
The launch featured activities such as a parade of students from different CEBs, artistic and cultural performances, and two football matches. The teaching staff faced the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) in an exhibition match, where the FDS won by one goal to zero. In the inaugural football match, Sarfalao D school defeated Yeguere A school with a score of 1-0.
Numerous administrative, educational, traditional, and religious authorities attended the ceremony, along with representatives from the education sector. The Governor of the Guiriko region, Ms. Mariama Konate/Gnanou, addressed the guest of honor.
The Minister of Sports, Youth and Employment praised the regional educational authorities' initiative, underscoring the importance of sport and culture in human and social development. He emphasized the subjects' role in primary school, highlighting their contributions to the awakening, balance, and socialization of children.
In light of national challenges, the minister stressed investing in youth to offer students frameworks for sporting and cultural expression. He noted that such initiatives provide positive reference points, strengthen resilience, and cultivate values like peace, solidarity, civic-mindedness, and patriotic commitment.
Addressing the students, the minister encouraged them to view sport and culture as spaces for learning, fraternity, and self-improvement, urging the cultivation of sportsmanship and respect for peers and supervisors.
Mr. Soilliou KARANTAO, the regional director of preschool, primary and non-formal education in Guiriko, confirmed the effective start of school competitions. He announced that provincial directorates would organize inter-school competitions at the district level, leading to a provincial championship and a regional final.
He acknowledged the authorities' commitment and emphasized the importance of collaboration, particularly with the Defense and Security Forces. Speaking for the sponsors, Mr. Abdoul Nassirou Maga lauded the educational and administrative authorities' initiative, calling it a strong act that strengthens social cohesion. He reiterated the sponsors' willingness to support actions promoting sport and culture in Burkinabe schools.