Ouagadougou: The History Department of Joseph Ki-Zerbo University in Ouagadougou is set to honor four of its retired pioneers: Professor Jean Baptiste Ki©th©ga, Professor Lassina Kot©, Dr. Kalo Antoine Millogo, and Dr. Oumarou Nao. This tribute will take the form of an archaeological exhibition scheduled to open on Thursday.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the exhibition is organized to acknowledge the contributions these retired researchers have made to student training and research, as well as the legacy they have left behind. Professor Jean C©lestin Ki, the director of the Laboratory of Archaeology and History of Arts and Technology at Joseph Ki-Zerbo University, emphasized the significance of this tradition in celebrating the impact of these alumni on the academic community.
The honorees include Professor Jean Baptiste Ki©th©ga, an archaeologist; Dr. Kalo Antoine Millogo, a prehistorian with expertise in the Paleolithic period; Professor Lassina Kot©, an archaeologist and prehistory specialist; and Dr. Oumarou Nao, an expert in art history. The exhibition, themed “400,000 Years of Human Presence in Burkina Faso,” will be held at the university’s doctoral school from May 8 to July 31, 2025, as announced by Professor Ki.
Professor Ki highlighted that the exhibition will encompass workshops focusing on various aspects such as prehistory, iron metallurgy, ceramics, arts, funerary archaeology, and architecture. The event aims to engage a broad audience, including the general public, schoolchildren, students, veteran researchers, and anyone interested in the historical and cultural knowledge of Burkina Faso.
Moreover, the exhibition is expected to attract attention from politicians, as it emphasizes the promotion of local knowledge and cultural heritage, reflecting on how these elements can contribute to self-identity and national development. The event is under the patronage of the Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation, Pr Adjima Thiombiano, and sponsored by the Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, Gilbert Pingdwend© Ou©draogo.