Bassitenga: 7,176 students from intermediate grades are taking part in civic and patriotic education. A total of 7,176 middle school students, including 3,023 boys and 4,153 girls, are participating in the Civic and Patriotic Education (ECP) program in Bassitenga Province. The official launch took place Tuesday at the Bassy High School sports field in Ziniare, presided over by the province's High Commissioner, Saidou Guigma.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony saw a strong turnout from secondary education stakeholders, including officials from public and private institutions, promoters of private schools, parents' associations, the Defense and Security Forces (FDS), supervisors, and students. This initiative, desired by the highest authorities in the country, is part of the national dynamic of strengthening civic-mindedness, patriotism, discipline, and living together in schools, in a context marked by security, social, and environmental challenges.
In his address, High Commissioner Saidou Guigma urged the students to abide by the rules and demonstrate discipline and responsibility. He emphasized that civic and patriotic education aims to cultivate citizens who respect republican values, are devoted to their country, and are committed to the development of Burkina Faso. The provincial director of Secondary, Vocational, and Technical Education for Bassitenga, Leocadie Traore/Hien, encouraged the students to take this training seriously, as it will allow them to better understand their country, respect national symbols, and adopt exemplary behavior both at school and in society.
The supervision will be provided by the Defense and Security Forces. In Ziniare, two sites have been selected for the implementation of the program: the Bassy high school and the Women's Center. Seeking to reassure the public, Police Lieutenant Sie Norbert Kambou, stationed at the Ziniare central police station, clarified that this was not military training. "There are no maneuvers. It's simply about introducing students to basic concepts, particularly individual movements. Parents have nothing to worry about," he stated.
Through this program, the authorities intend to contribute to the formation of a disciplined, patriotic youth resolutely committed to building a strong Burkina Faso.