Ouagadougou: The new president of Thomas Sankara University (UTS), Professor T. Didier Zoungrana, emphasized the importance of dialogue, consultation, and permanent communication during his assumption of duties on Tuesday. He aims to use these as the foundation for his governance to ensure the institution’s proper functioning and the provision of quality university services.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Professor Zoungrana stressed the necessity of mutual trust and collective work as crucial elements for committing the university to academic and administrative efficiency. “By working together, in a spirit of mutual trust, we can irreversibly set Thomas Sankara University on the efficient path of providing quality university services,” he maintained.
Professor Zoungrana called upon all members of the university community to collaborate in building a quality university based on high-performing training and research beneficial to Burkina Faso’s socio-economic development. He also urged his colleagues to demonstrate cohesion, responsibility, and solidarity to tackle the challenges of higher education.
Expressing gratitude and determination, Professor Zoungrana thanked the country’s highest authorities and the Minister in charge of Higher Education, Professor Adjima Thiombiano, for their trust. He emphasized placing collective interest above individual interests for the well-being of the university community.
The new president paid tribute to his predecessor, Professor Pam Zahonogo, acknowledging the efforts made during the past four years. He requested their continued advice and support to further the reforms initiated.
Professor Zoungrana highlighted the importance of continuing the normalization of academic years and improving the quality of university training. He believes the success of ongoing reforms requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including hierarchical authorities, teaching and research staff, students, partners, and administrative personnel.
He encouraged students to cultivate values such as discipline, hard work, patriotism, responsibility, and respect, essential for academic success. He urged them to reject negative behaviors while reaffirming his commitment to improving their study conditions with the support of authorities and well-meaning individuals.
Professor Pam Zahonogo, the outgoing president, expressed gratitude to colleagues for their efforts during his term, noting the encouraging results achieved, particularly in normalizing the academic year. He assured his successor of his support in achieving the university’s objectives.
Appointed by the Council of Ministers on May 13, 2026, Professor Tibi Didier Zoungrana succeeds Professor Pam Zahonogo after four years at the helm. Prior to this, he served as Director of the Doctoral School at Thomas Sankara University.