Leo: The 2025-2026 school year was officially launched this Wednesday in Leo, the capital of Sissili province. In institutions such as Yenou-Zian A Public Primary School, teaching activities have already commenced in several classes, with a focus on CM2. The teaching staff were actively present to ensure students were settled and teaching materials were in order.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the school’s principal, Mr. Belele Benjamin Bama, noted that the start of the school year was slow but praised the smooth operation of the first day despite the significant class sizes. Similar observations have been made in numerous other institutions, where the resumption of classes is occurring gradually through revisions, refresher courses, and educational discussions.

Challenges accompany this return to school, as many parents have yet to secure a place for their children. A concerned parent shared, “I’ve been touring schools for three days. My seven-year-old son still doesn’t have a class. The classrooms are packed.” This issue is echoed in schools like Natanagolo, where some CP1 students are sharing a table with three or four peers, creating movement difficulties within the class.

Local education officials are raising concerns about the overcrowding. Mr. Abdramane Nignan, Head of the Leo Basic Education District, is advocating for the opening of additional classes and seeking assistance from authorities for new constructions to manage the student population better. He extended his best wishes for success to all education system stakeholders.