Nobere as part of his national tour:obere As part of his national tour, the Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, Professor Adjima Thiombiano, visited Norbert Zongo University (UNZ) where he engaged stakeholders in academic normalization, AIB observed.
According to Burkina Information Agency, accompanied by the governor of the Nando region, Mr. Adama Jean Yves Bere, the minister spoke with teachers, administrative staff, and students about structural reforms and the challenges facing the institution. The central objective of this visit is unequivocal: to engage the entire university community in working towards a complete and definitive normalization of academic years by July 31, 2026.
Commending the leadership of the President of UNZ, Professor Eugenie Awa Wendkuuni Maiga, particularly through the "Let's Get to Work" initiative, Professor Thiombiano congratulated all those involved for the sacrifices already made. The announced rehabilitation of the multipurpose hall by regional authorities will mark a key step towards a return to a normal course of classes.
The minister detailed the profound transformations underway in Burkina Faso's education system. Regarding the pedagogical overhaul, he mentioned a revision of syllabi, new curricula, and the specialization of higher education and research institutes (IESR). "Our ambition is not to produce graduates, but skills," he emphasized. Concerning research support, he outlined a focus on themes of national interest through Joint Research Teams (EMR) and the announcement of the Special Contribution for Research and Innovation (CORI) to address funding challenges.
The meeting allowed for direct dialogue on the realities on the ground. In the case of staff, discussions focused on professional competitions, the prompt payment of shifts, the exemption of taxes on overtime, and the improvement of connectivity (Wi-Fi). The students' grievances concerned access to FONER via Campusfaso and the lack of infrastructure. Sensitive to inclusion, the minister instructed the immediate acquisition of specific equipment for a visually impaired student.
To support this momentum, the minister noted that UNZ benefits from the Presidential Initiative for Quality Education (IPEQ), with the construction of two lecture halls (500 and 1000 seats). Furthermore, the acquisition of over 530 buses nationwide further enhances student mobility.
In conclusion, Professor Adjima Thiombiano called on young people to become agents of change. "You should go down in history as the youth who said 'Stop to academic delays.'" He urged everyone to cultivate patriotism, discipline, and solidarity to restore the image of Burkina Faso's universities.