Ouagadougou: The 18th edition of the Ouagadougou International Book Fair (FILO), which opened on November 25, 2025, is registering strong enthusiasm among students, who have come in large numbers to discover the world of books through guided tours organized by several primary and secondary schools.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the large number of toddlers present gave the fair a more lively and vibrant atmosphere. The students wandered through the stalls, explored books suitable for their age, and enjoyed the play areas set up to entertain them.

Among the participating schools was the Le Nahouri school complex, represented by teacher Nicole Kabre, who led a delegation of 48 students from grades 2, 3, and 5. According to her, this educational outing aims to foster a love of reading in children and allow them to discover the diversity of literary works.

Among the young visitors, Mansour Sidibe, a fifth-grade student, said he understood the importance of reading. "Reading allows us to know how our grandparents lived, to learn about their history, and to be strong in dictation and expression. I love reading, and I had the opportunity to read Soundiata Keita," he confided.

For Sore Djamila, a 6th-grade student, exploring the book stands was a captivating experience. "I'm so happy to be surrounded by so many books. I find it interesting to walk around the stands and discover different novels," she said, before encouraging her classmates who aren't keen on reading to take it up because "it builds the future."

The strong presence of children at FILO 2025 demonstrates the desire of Burkinabe schools to make the book a central tool for learning and awakening.