Ouagadougou: The 1,000-seat multipurpose hall in Ziniar© was packed on July 21 and 22, 2025, for the first career days organized in Bassitenga province. An initiative of the Bassitenga provincial directorate of secondary, vocational, and technical education, which allowed new high school graduates, students, and parents to learn about training programs and their career prospects.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Wendgoudi Fabrice Tond©, a recent D-series graduate, expressed his relief as the event helped clarify his options among various majors, including MPCI, marketing and management, finance and accounting, and regional planning. Similarly, Carole Nongbzanga Ou©draogo, another recent graduate, highlighted the importance of the event in aiding students to select suitable university programs, minimizing the risk of making poor decisions.
The opening ceremony was led by the High Commissioner of Bassitenga, Sahabani Zeba, who stressed the importance of informed decision-making for academic success. He noted that previously, orientation days were viewed only on TV, but this local initiative provided a direct benefit to students and their families.
Naaba Sanem, the chief of Ziniar© and sponsor of the event, underscored the necessity of parental involvement and recognition of the limitations of public university offerings, advocating for the continuation of such initiatives in the future.
Inspector L©ocadie Traor©, the provincial director, articulated the event's goal, emphasizing the theme "Find your way today to succeed tomorrow," aiming to guide young people in making informed educational choices post-baccalaureate.
The program featured panels on various university courses, registration processes, and the CampusFaso platform. It also provided insights into social services, including scholarships and FONER, with public and private universities participating.
Special sessions were conducted by the Guidance and Scholarship Services and the CROU, covering health and food services. Professional testimonials, like that of Ms. R©gina Kadio from the S©duction Coiffure training center, highlighted alternative career paths, emphasizing vocational training as a viable and fulfilling option.
Attendees, including BEPC and BAC graduates, engaged in subgroup discussions and explored stands from invited institutes and schools to gain a comprehensive understanding of available training options within Burkina Faso. The country's objective is to achieve a 60% referral rate for technical education and vocational training.