Komondjari: A public conference on psychosocial support (APS) for the benefit of the servants of the people of the province of Komondjari was held this Wednesday in the meeting room of the town hall of Gayeri, under the chairmanship of the high commissioner, Valentin Gnanou.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event was organized amidst ongoing security and social challenges and brought together administrative officials, department heads, and staff from various sectors. The discussions were led by Lucien Ouoba Yatenyoua, the provincial director of Preschool, Primary, and Non-Formal Education (DPEPPNF), who outlined the meeting's objectives.

The conference's central theme revolved around recognizing signs of psychosocial distress and understanding the trauma healing process. Madiega Christian, Inspector of Primary and Non-Formal Education (IEPENF) at DPEPPNF in Komondjari, delivered the main presentation.

In his opening remarks, High Commissioner Valentin Gnanou highlighted the importance of psychological well-being for public servants. He stated that attending to one's psychological health is a duty of service, not merely a luxury, and emphasized that the resilience of public workers is crucial for the overall resilience of the community.

The High Commissioner noted that challenging working conditions, especially for combat forces, teachers, and healthcare workers, contribute to stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. He referenced World Health Organization (WHO) data, which suggests that in crisis zones, one in five people might develop psychological disorders.

To address these issues, he advocated for psychosocial support through simple actions like active listening among colleagues and mutual support within departments. He also urged managers to prioritize the well-being of their staff.

Additionally, he praised the provincial directorate of preschool, primary, and non-formal education for selecting a pertinent theme and encouraged participants to engage actively in the discussions.

The conference is part of a broader initiative to enhance the capacity of public officials to cope with the security situation's effects, aiming to foster a more supportive and resilient working environment in Komondjari province.