Gourma: The Minister in charge of Basic Education, Jacques Sosthene Dingara, met on Monday, February 2, 2026, in Fada N'Gourma with education stakeholders from the Goulmou, Sirba, and Tapoa regions, as part of a national consultation tour on the contribution of the education sector to the progressive and popular revolution.
According to Burkina Information Agency, these discussions aim to establish a common understanding and shared commitment among stakeholders in the education system regarding the reforms undertaken by the government. "We are in the midst of a revolution where we must do things differently. The education system must undergo profound changes to better meet the aspirations of the Burkinabe people," Dingara stated.
Among the main reforms discussed are the comprehensive support of children at school, considered a government priority, curriculum revisions, anchoring education in national values and identity, and reforms to teacher supervision. The minister also emphasized the establishment of school councils to strengthen community involvement in children's education and school meals. "The community-run canteen is an approach that aims to enable communities to feed their children using their own resources. Today, our communities have the capacity to do so, and examples already exist," he stated, expressing confidence in the momentum already underway.
Beyond structural reforms, Jacques Sosthene Dingara's visit also aimed to convey the recognition of the highest authorities in the country to education stakeholders in the Eastern region, which faces persistent security challenges. He commended the resilience, commitment, and dedication of teachers and educational supervisors who continue to ensure the right to education in areas that are sometimes difficult to access, with the support of state institutions and the defense and security forces.
During the discussions, education stakeholders raised several concerns, including career management, the specific treatment of teachers working in areas with significant security challenges, and the effective implementation of the locally sourced school canteen program. In response, Mr. Dingara called for a paradigm shift. "We are no longer just civil servants; we are servants of the people. The fundamental question today is what each of us contributes to enable the country to truly embark on endogenous development," he stated.
Regarding career management, he acknowledged the existing difficulties, while emphasizing that reforms are underway to allow teachers to fully dedicate themselves to their mission, including during vacation periods. "Even if addressing all concerns is not easy, we are working towards it and we are confident that things will evolve positively," he concluded.