Boulgou: Students from the CEG in Sector 1 are introduced to the dyeing of the kokodonda loincloth. The CEG (General Education College) of Sector 1 in Tenkodogo hosted a theoretical and practical training session on dyeing kokodonda loincloth on Saturday morning for students in the 6th grade. This activity is part of the national initiative to introduce vocational training into schools, in accordance with the directives of the highest authorities.
According to Burkina Information Agency, 6th-grade student Evrard Kiema shared that he had learned three dyeing patterns: the circular pattern, the stick pattern, and the salad pattern. "This morning, we learned how to make kokodonda. I was able to make all three patterns, and I now feel confident I can reproduce them," he stated.
The instructor, Sinamba nee Banga Nestorine, expressed her satisfaction with the students' attention and engagement. 'We presented the theory, then the practice. The students learned the salad, stick and circular models. The message got through, because during the follow-ups, they were able to answer the questions. The next step will involve the 5th grade classes,' she explained.
According to the instructors, this training allows students to be gradually introduced to artisanal techniques in order to develop, from middle school onwards, a culture of practical skills.
The chairman of the school board of the CEG (General Education College) in Sector 1, Ousmane Nougtara, praised the intervention of the Solidarite Nouvelle (ASNBF) association. "We thank the association and all its members for their support in this training in dyeing kokodonda cloth. Today, education without practical experience offers few prospects."
"The introduction of trades allows students to acquire useful basic skills for everyday life," he said.
For his part, Etienne Kere, president of the ASNBF Nakambe section, recalled that this intervention responds to the call of the head of state, Captain Ibrahim Traore, inviting the learning of trades in public primary and secondary establishments. 'This is the second time we have come to this CEG. The officials asked us to train the students in kokodonda dyeing and soap making. This morning, we provided theoretical and practical training for the 6th grade class. The rest will follow the school's schedule,' he explained.
He explained that the theoretical training covers the definition, choice of fabrics, colors, and designs, before the practical demonstration involving each student. "They all participated in creating the three designs. We will support all schools that have chosen to teach kokodonda. This is our way of supporting the government's efforts for quality training," he added.