Ouagadougou: The first edition of the Young Inventor of Faso competition has been launched with 300 young innovators competing. The Ministry of Digital Transition officially launched the first edition of the "Young Inventor of Faso" program on Saturday. Organized by BF1 television, the program aims to promote young talent capable of proposing solutions to national challenges. Three hundred young Burkinabe from the country's 13 regions will compete in this competition.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Elise Kaba, representing the Minister of Digital Transition, Posts and Electronic Communications, praised the initiative for highlighting the talent and innovative capacity of Burkinabe youth. She emphasized that the development of Burkina Faso relies on its ability to produce ideas, design solutions adapted to national realities, and transform them into wealth, jobs, and valuable services for the population.
Kaba addressed the young participants, recalling that the President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traor©, encourages the youth to be the driving force behind the nation's transformation. She noted that the government prioritizes national sovereignty, particularly in technological and digital matters, through the Ministry of Digital Transition's actions.
The ambition is to create a Burkina Faso where solutions are created, developed, and implemented by Burkinabe people for their own benefit. Investments in digital infrastructure, connectivity expansion, public service modernization, cybersecurity, national data centers, artificial intelligence, and support for young talent were highlighted as key areas of focus.
Kaba mentioned that the 300 participants represent numerous opportunities for innovation and solutions to national challenges. She called upon universities, research centers, incubators, the private sector, and partners to support young inventors in transforming their projects into viable businesses.
The general manager of BF1 television explained that the competition is more than just entertainment; it serves as a platform to showcase the genius and creativity of the youth. The call for applications, open to individuals aged 35 and under, received 300 registrations from all 13 regions, demonstrating the country's rich talent pool.
A scientific committee has been established to ensure the selection process's rigor and credibility. The CEO expressed gratitude to the ministries responsible for Digital Transition, Scientific Research, and Vocational Training for their support, as well as to IAMGOLD Essakane, the competition's official sponsor, for its commitment to innovation and youth entrepreneurship.
Addressing the candidates, the CEO encouraged boldness and creativity, wishing them success in the competition.