Ouagadougou: Student Emile Nacoulma presented his research work on the challenges and opportunities for sustainable development of building infrastructure to the Higher Institute of Technology (IST) on Monday, August 3, for the Master's degree in civil engineering.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the thesis topic of candidate Emile Nacoulma was "Standards and qualities in civil engineering: challenges and opportunities for the sustainable development of building infrastructure in Burkina Faso". In Burkina Faso, despite the existence of several regulatory texts in the building and public works sector, difficulties persist. These include the weak application of technical standards, the use of materials of varying quality, insufficient site inspections, a lack of laboratory testing, the low qualifications of some stakeholders, and non-compliance with technical requirements.

For him, these shortcomings regularly lead to problems such as cracks, subsidence, premature deterioration, and sometimes even the collapse of structures. Faced with this issue, Emile Nacoulma decided to focus his final-year Master's thesis in civil engineering on the challenges and opportunities of applying standards and quality principles to the sustainable development of infrastructure in Burkina Faso, a country undergoing rapid construction.

Before a jury of civil engineering experts, Comrade Nacoulma demonstrated the scientific, professional, and socio-economic value of his research. This study will undoubtedly contribute to enriching knowledge about the link between standards, construction quality, and sustainable development in Burkina Faso, while also providing useful information to stakeholders in the sector to improve the performance, safety, and durability of infrastructure.

The jury praised the relevance of the topic and noted that "the study was well conducted according to best practices." They commended the candidate for his commitment and listening skills. The jury awarded Comrade Nacoulma a score of 17.22/20.

'I am satisfied with this grade in view of the work done, (...) I really wanted to contribute to improving the application of standards and quality requirements in the field,' said candidate Nacoulma.