Ouagadougou:Former military officials shared their professional and personal experiences with students at Thomas Sankara University on Monday, during a conference organized by the Delegation for Veterans and Former Military Personnel (DACAM). The event aimed to promote the values of patriotism, discipline, resilience, and dedication to the nation among young people.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the meeting was chaired by the Minister of State, Minister of War and Patriotic Defense, and focused on the theme "Commitment, Resilience, and Patriotism Testimonies of Former Military Personnel Serving University Youth." The event included a flag-raising ceremony, the planting of a baobab tree, and a panel discussion led by former high-ranking military officials.
In his welcoming remarks, the president of Thomas Sankara University acknowledged the presence of the delegation from the Ministry of War and Patriotic Defense, which participated in the raising of the colors, organized every second Monday of the month within the institution. He emphasized that the values promoted during this meeting are also principles that guide university life, highlighting the efforts made by faculty, staff, and students to achieve the normalization of the 2025-2026 academic year.
Colonel William Aristide Nassidja Combari, the delegate for veterans and former military personnel, explained that the initiative aims to leverage the experience of former military personnel to guide younger generations in their personal and professional paths. He invited students to engage with former military personnel to gather advice and understand the requirements of commitment to serving the nation.
Retired Major General Lougué Kouamé, with nearly 42 years of service, urged students to prioritize the national interest above personal ambitions. He encouraged young people to love their homeland, cultivate a taste for work, and contribute to its development through their own efforts. He also highlighted the importance of mutual learning between generations.
The testimonials resonated with students. Soré Abdoul Fatao, a second-year private law student, expressed appreciation for the initiative, which showcased professional paths marked by challenges and perseverance. Her classmate, Combari Miada Rosine, also a second-year private law student, praised the determination and sacrifices of former military leaders, strengthening her motivation to join the army.