Bobo-dioulasso: A significant milestone was reached for 1,187 students from the Alpha Solidarit© schools in Bobo-Dioulasso as they completed a month-long immersion program designed to instill discipline and patriotism. The official ceremony, held by Water and Forestry agents, marked the end of an intensive series of activities that began on January 13, 2026.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the program included a balanced mix of educational modules and physical training aimed at fostering civic and patriotic values among the students, who comprised 651 girls and 536 boys. The curriculum addressed critical issues such as combating drugs, violence, and insecurity, while promoting the cleanliness of school facilities, solidarity, and communal living. The students were also engaged in physical exercises and close-order drills to enhance their discipline, endurance, and teamwork skills.

Salifou Zall©, speaking on behalf of the students, expressed gratitude for the comprehensive training experience. 'In this intensive training, we learned much more than physical exercises and close-order drills. Through these activities, we discovered discipline, rigor, respect for instructions, and teamwork. The physical exercises taught us endurance and pushing our limits. Close-order drills taught us coordination, obedience, and a sense of organization,' he said.

Lieutenant-Colonel Kando Fuwalagye Lucie, representing the Regional Director of Water and Forests, emphasized the program's goal of nurturing a responsible and engaged youth. She encouraged students to apply the lessons learned in their daily lives. 'As participants in this program, you must learn to be disciplined wherever you are. Never forget that you are Burkinab¨. Put into practice everything you have been taught. We want a responsible youth. We no longer want to see people performing acrobatics or skipping classes to play anywhere or do whatever they want. Long live responsible Burkinab¨ youth! Long live Burkina Faso!' she proclaimed.

This initiative aligns with the national agenda of bolstering civic engagement and citizenship education, reflecting the vision of President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traor©, who prioritizes youth in the nation's rebuilding efforts.