Koudougou: The Burkina Faso Agency for Standardization, Metrology and Quality (ABNORM) conducted an information and awareness workshop for journalists and communication professionals recently. The event aimed to highlight ABNORM’s mission and engage media professionals in fostering a culture of quality.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the workshop’s goal was to help participants gain a better understanding of the agency’s missions, services, and concepts. This understanding is expected to lead to more accurate media coverage of ABNORM’s activities, as articulated by Oumarou Ki, the representative of the Director General of ABNORM.

Mr. Ki emphasized that ABNORM is tasked with implementing national policies related to standardization, metrology, certification, control, and promotion of quality, alongside accreditation. He pointed out that these technical areas are often not easily accessible to the public and sometimes misunderstood by information providers, which may affect the quality of media reporting.

He addressed the issue of misrepresentation, noting that when concepts are misunderstood, they are presented inaccurately, and when missions are not well-known, their true scope may be overlooked. Mr. Ki urged for a strong partnership between ABNORM and the media, encouraging journalists to actively promote the culture of quality through their work.

He contended that the media can play a crucial role in educating consumers, promoting quality-focused companies, and spreading best practices. The workshop included two expert presentations from ABNORM. Abdou Rahim Kinda, director of quality promotion, discussed the institution’s missions, responsibilities, and services. Meanwhile, Badolo Lassina, head of the communication and press relations department, highlighted the media’s role in promoting quality culture in Burkina Faso.

Participants shared observations and suggestions to enhance collaboration between ABNORM and the press during the exchange phase. Mr. Oumarou Ki, speaking on behalf of his superior, expressed gratitude to the media professionals for attending despite their busy schedules. He acknowledged their interest in quality issues and the development challenges facing Burkina Faso.