Koudougou: Norbert Zongo University (UNZ) in Koudougou held an official ceremony on Friday to welcome new graduates, marking the effective start of academic activities for the 2025-2026 academic year, AIB noted on site.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event, chaired by Mrs. Wendkuni Awa Eugenie Maiga, President of the University, brought together several administrative, customary, religious, and university authorities, including the Governor of the Nando region, Adama Jean Yves Bere.
The ceremony began with the raising of the national colours, a moment of patriotism and cohesion, before giving way to a series of speeches marked by recognition and encouragement.
In her speech, the President of Norbert Zongo University expressed her gratitude to all regional authorities and the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation for their continued support. She praised the dedication of the teaching, administrative, and technical staff for their efforts to standardize the academic years.
“You
r commitment, even during periods of rest, reflects remarkable patriotism,” she said, while urging the university community to continue its efforts, consolidate good practices, and strive for excellence.
Ms. Maiga also welcomed the new graduates, urging them to cultivate discipline, perseverance, and a love of work. “Only hard work pays off, and hard work always pays off,” she said, before wishing all students and teachers success.
For his part, the governor of the Centre-Ouest region, Adama Jean Yves Bere, welcomed the initiative of Norbert Zongo University, which, according to him, brings together the entire educational world and authorities around the symbols of the State. “Seeing these new students, I almost want to come back to the university,” he said humorously, before congratulating the president for her leadership and her commitment to civic duty and academic patriotism.
He also acknowledged the positive impact of the compulsory patriotic immersion, which he said helped to train “committed, discip
lined students who respect republican values.”
In a show of appreciation, certificates were presented to student representatives, teachers, administrative and technical staff, and representatives of the board of directors for their resilience and commitment to addressing academic delays.
The ceremony ended in a friendly atmosphere with a symbolic tree planting, a strong act reflecting the university community’s desire to contribute to environmental protection and the sustainability of the actions carried out within Norbert Zongo University.