Ouagadougou:Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo inaugurated a 500-seat amphitheater at the Burkina Faso Institute of Arts and Crafts (IBAM) on Monday. This new facility is part of the Presidential Initiative for Quality Education for All and aims to expand the institute's capacity with modern teaching spaces and laboratories.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Minister of Higher Education, Adjima Thiombiano, highlighted this inauguration as a significant step in the development of university infrastructure by the authorities. He noted that President Ibrahim Traore had previously opened the first amphitheater at Nazi-Boni University in Bobo-Dioulasso earlier in September 2026.

Prime Minister Ouedraogo mentioned that this is the second lecture hall opened under this initiative, with about ten more scheduled for completion in the 2026-2027 academic year. He emphasized the importance of providing conditions where students can follow courses effectively in all rooms.

Minister Ouedraogo urged maintaining discipline and focus to support educational achievements and structural transformations. He stressed the importance of equipping young people with practical and patriotic knowledge.

Professor Thiombiano praised the normalization of academic years and improvements made since 2023 at the African and Malagasy Council for Higher Education. He called for a sustainable academic calendar across all educational institutions.

Addressing students, the minister encouraged them to seek knowledge, develop skills, and uphold the values learned during their patriotic programs. He urged teacher-researchers to demonstrate responsibility and adhere to their roles and obligations.

Student representative Eva Benjamine Kazinga expressed gratitude for the new infrastructure, noting it addresses space issues and improves conditions for higher education. She reiterated the importance of investing in youth as a cornerstone for the nation's future.