Banfora: Saint Luc High School in Banfora has taken a significant step in enhancing its educational offerings by introducing specialized learning workshops for its students. The initiative was officially unveiled by the school's Principal, Father Alexandre Bingo, who emphasized the importance of these workshops as a fundamental part of the school's educational project since its inception in 2012.
According to Burkina Information Agency, these workshops, held every Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., offer students a wide range of activities spanning sports and manual and artistic training. In the sports domain, options include football, gymnastics, taekwondo, choreography, and basketball. The football program, which accommodates players from U15 to U19, has evolved into an academy that identifies talented players and pairs them with professional coaches. Currently, two players are undergoing professional trials in Italy, showcasing the academy's potential.
In addition to sports, the workshops provide training in mechatronics, hairdressing for both men and women, sewing, choir, drawing, decoration, and theater. These activities aim to deliver a comprehensive education, equipping students with skills for future employment and entrepreneurship. Father Bingo highlighted the workshops as a platform for students to express themselves and develop different forms of intelligence, which are highly appreciated by both students and parents.
The workshops' impact extends beyond high school, as some students utilize the skills acquired to support themselves in university. Father Bingo cited an example of a former student who successfully opened a hair salon while pursuing higher education. He stressed the importance of practical skills development in line with national educational trends, advocating for the cultivation of well-rounded citizens.
Father Bingo urged students to take their training seriously and encouraged parents to support their children's perseverance. He assured that students in hairdressing and sewing would be prepared to obtain the Professional Qualification Certificate (CQP) after two years of training.
Idrissa Coulibaly, head of the basketball workshop, commended the school's initiative, noting initial reluctance among students that has since transformed into genuine commitment. Workshop participant Ouedraogo W. Shakira expressed her enthusiasm for basketball training, aspiring to make it a career.
Mamadou Arnaud Kouyate, head of the football workshop, described the program's structure, highlighting the strong interest among students. With sessions extending up to three hours during preparation periods, the workshop provides a robust training environment. Kouyate expressed gratitude to the headmaster and colleagues for their efforts and encouraged students to approach the training with dedication.