The PDS Advocates for Unity at OSCEP 2026 Closing Ceremony in Dourtenga

Meguet: The President of the Special Delegation (PDS) of Dourtenga, Abdel Nasser Diarra, on Saturday, urged the community to foster peace, social cohesion, and patriotism during the closing ceremony of the Organization of Sport and Culture in Primary School (OSCEP) 2026. The event was held in the Basic Education District (CEB) of Dourtenga under the theme "Sport and culture, levers for education and promotion of peace in a context of insecurity."

According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony attracted a diverse gathering, including administrative, educational, customary, and religious authorities, as well as members of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS), Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), students, and local residents. Abdel Nasser Diarra called for a moment of silence to honor the FDS and VDP who have perished while on duty, acknowledging their efforts in maintaining safety.

Diarra commended the choice of theme for this year's edition, highlighting its significance given the nation's current circumstances. He extended his appreciation to teachers, supervisors, partners, and the organizing committee for their dedication to making the event successful despite the prevailing security challenges.

The event was sponsored by Commander Zenith R©gist Arnaud Yaro, head of the 61st RIC of Tenkodogo, and Bila Beno®t Segda, C-CEB of Koup©la 2, a native of the area. Marc Zombr©, representing the sponsors, stressed the critical role of sport and culture in children's education and the peacebuilding process. He acknowledged the discipline and respect instilled by sports, emphasizing their importance in the nation's quest for enduring peace.

Zombr© also expressed gratitude to the Defense and Security Forces and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) for their dedication to securing the region, and he reaffirmed the sponsors' commitment to supporting educational and social initiatives. Yigo Daguim, president of the organizing committee and CCEB of Dourtenga, lauded the collaboration among education sector stakeholders and partners for the event's success. He highlighted the role of sporting and cultural activities in fostering social cohesion and community spirit, describing the event as "an act of resistance."

The ceremony concluded with a football match between Niodhin School and Tarkoaghin School, where Niodhin School won with a score of one to zero. The event wrapped up with the distribution of prizes and trophies to the participating teams and winners.