Fada n'gourma: The governor of the Goulmou region, Ram Joseph Kafando, inaugurated the oral and written examinations for the 2026 baccalaureate at Diaba Lompo High School. This session involves 3,906 candidates from the Goulmou, Sirba, and Tapoa regions, with 2,141 girls and 1,765 boys registered.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the governor and his delegation provided encouragement to the candidates, emphasizing the importance of facing the exams with serenity, discipline, and responsibility. Mr. Kafando highlighted Burkina Faso's ongoing rebuilding process, which necessitates competent and honest human resources. He urged the candidates to avoid fraud and maintain integrity both during the exams and in their everyday lives.

Mr. Kafando encouraged the candidates to remain confident, calm, and determined throughout the examination process. He stressed the importance of adhering to the rules to earn their first university degree honorably. He also acknowledged the contributions of education system stakeholders and the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) in ensuring the smooth conduct of the examinations.

The regional director of Secondary Education and Vocational and Technical Training of Goulmou, Gabriel Sawadogo, reported that the number of candidates has decreased compared to the 2025 session, which had 4,519 candidates. He attributed the reduction to a decline in independent candidates and challenges related to the security situation.

Mr. Sawadogo assured that all necessary organizational, administrative, and security measures had been implemented to facilitate a conducive examination environment. He expressed gratitude to the teachers, administrative staff, educational supervisors, and the Defense and Security Forces for their dedication, which was crucial for the successful organization of the national examination.

For the candidates, this baccalaureate session is a critical milestone towards higher education and eventual integration into the professional world.