Ouagadougou: A solemn raising of the colors marked the start of the school year this Tuesday, October 14, at the Leo-Nassau public primary school. This ceremony, aimed at imbuing staff and students with the patriotic and civic spirit, took place in the presence of the provincial director of preschool, primary and non-formal education of Sissili, Soungalo Traore.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event began at 7:15 a.m. in the schoolyard, where students were lined up in an orderly fashion around the flagpole, creating a solemn setting. The teaching staff and educational authorities took their places, and at the sound of the whistle, the notes of the national anthem, the Ditanye, rang out in chorus. A student, chosen for the occasion, majestically hoisted the national flag.

The head of the Leo Basic Education District (CCEB), Abdramane Nignan, praised the patriotic commitment, stating that the ceremony holds significant civic meaning, allowing children to integrate values such as civic-mindedness and respect for the common good. He congratulated the students and teaching staff for their participation.

Provincial director Soungalo Traore addressed the gathering, urging teachers to cultivate patriotism among the students by setting an example. He emphasized the role of educators as role models in instilling patriotism and sovereignty, aligning with the vision of the Head of State, Captain Ibrahim Traore. Mr. Traore also mentioned a potential mandatory patriotic immersion for primary school students, planned for the end of the school year, and encouraged active preparation.

The school’s principal, Abdina Sawadogo, expressed gratitude to the educational authorities for their support and vowed to make Nassau School a model of patriotic commitment in the commune of Leo. He emphasized their efforts in instilling Burkinabe values in the students.

Students expressed their enthusiasm and pride in the ceremony. Ramzi Nebie, a fourth-grade student, declared his love for Burkina Faso and his respect for the flag, while Ruth Sawadogo, a second-grade student, shared her happiness about the national emblem.

The ceremony concluded with joy and camaraderie, marked by congenial interactions between educational authorities, teachers, and students, before resuming educational activities.