Ouagadougou: The activities of the 2026 Mandatory Patriotic Immersion program were officially launched Tuesday in Gorom-Gorom by the High Commissioner of Oudalan Province, Valentin Mar. A total of 84 young conscripts will participate in this 30-day training program aimed at strengthening patriotism, solidarity, social cohesion, and civic engagement.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony began with the playing of the national anthem, followed by prayers from religious authorities for the smooth running of activities in peace, security, and tranquility. The second vice-president of the Gorom-Gorom Special Delegation, Alain Kombr, reaffirmed the community's commitment to supporting the implementation of this initiative in the province. He also commended the efforts of the provincial organizing committee in preparing this edition.
A former participant in the 2025 patriotic immersion program shared his experience with the new recruits, indicating that the training had allowed him to develop the values of living together, sharing, and solidarity. He encouraged the participants to move beyond ethnic considerations and prioritize their shared Burkinab¨ identity.
Speaking to the conscripts, High Commissioner Valentin Mar urged them to pay close attention to the message from the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traor. In his address, he reminded them that this immersion program was taking place in a context marked by the Revolution and security challenges. He stated that young people must be prepared for revolutionary ideals to contribute to the defense of the nation's interests.
He explained that during the 30-day training program, participants will receive instruction on the ideals of the Revolution, patriotism, solidarity, mutual aid, and social cohesion. The goal is to train citizens capable of prioritizing their sense of belonging to the Nation over ethnic or religious divisions.
The High Commissioner concluded by congratulating the various actors involved in the organization of this session and urged both the supervisors and the participants to fully commit themselves to its success. He also invited parents to support their children with confidence, believing that the greater interest of the Nation must prevail.
The ceremony concluded with a symbolic planting of trees by the authorities and the conscripts, as a sign of commitment to environmental protection and the building of a resilient and united Burkina Faso.