Ouagadougou: The 1990-1996 graduating class of the Koumbri school paid tribute to their teachers on Sunday, March 22, AIB observed. The class leader at the time, Lieutenant-Colonel Lassane Porgo, and his classmates from the 90-96 class of the Koumbri public primary school organized a ceremony to honor their former educators.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event was highlighted by a simulation of a school day. This included taking attendance, speeches of recognition, testimonials, and the presentation of gifts. These activities were part of a reunion that brought together classmates and teachers from the past.
In a message of appreciation, Lieutenant-Colonel Lassane Porgo, currently the commander of the second military region, emphasized that their former teachers made significant contributions at a time when popular education was emerging in the country. Despite limited resources, the teachers instilled values such as integrity, humility, a strong work ethic, loyalty, and love for one's neighbor. Porgo stated, "After more than thirty years of dedicated service, it is only right that we pay a heartfelt tribute to these men and women who shaped our future and enabled my comrades and me to serve Burkina Faso in various social spheres."
Karim Ki, a retired primary school inspector and President of the retirees of the Gouiriko region, spoke on behalf of the former teachers. He expressed that training this generation of learners was done with honor, dedication, and sacrifice. "We are very pleased to see, thirty-six years later, that our dedication to education has borne fruit that benefits the entire Burkinab¨ society," Ki said. He acknowledged the achievements of Porgo and his classmates, who now hold significant positions in the country, and thanked them for recognizing the teachers' efforts after so many years.
Former social partners of the school, including members of the APE office, religious leaders, and the traditional chief, also recognized the dedication of the teachers and students. They acknowledged the significant role played by the Koumbri public primary school in the educational landscape of Burkina Faso.