Ouagadougou:The university community of Joseph Ki-Zerbo University paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Professor Pelega Florent Kieno, a retired physics professor who passed away on October 14, 2026, at the age of 72 in Ouagadougou. The ceremony honored his dedication to the advancement of physics education in Burkina Faso.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event, held at Joseph Ki-Zerbo University, gathered university officials, teacher-researchers, students, colleagues, friends, and family members. They came together to celebrate the life and contributions of Professor Kieno, who devoted over thirty years to higher education.
Born in Soaw, Boulkiemde province, on December 31, 1954, Professor Kieno was a specialist in thermal engineering and thermodynamics. Despite retiring in 2019, he remained active in academia, participating in thesis and master's defense committees. He was a founding member of the Laboratory for Renewable Thermal Energies (LETRE) and supervised numerous theses while authoring over fifty scientific publications.
Professor Issa Zerbo from LETRE highlighted Kieno's significant contributions to science and team cohesion. Colleagues remembered him as a calm and kind individual, deeply committed to his work. Professor Bathiebo Joseph, who knew him since high school, emphasized Kieno's dedication to his students and his availability, even during late hours.
Childhood friend Leonard Ouedraogo shared memories of their long friendship, portraying Kieno as a gentle, conflict-averse man. Dr. Karim Toussakoe, speaking for former students, praised Kieno's educational legacy, describing his teaching approach as rigorous and analytical.
Family representative Kontogon Jacques expressed gratitude to the university for their support. He noted that Kieno's passing leaves a substantial void, not only in academia but also in his family life, where he was a devoted husband and father.
The memorial highlighted Kieno's enduring impact on his students and colleagues. The funeral arrangements include a mass and burial in Soaw on October 20, ensuring his memory will continue to inspire future generations.