Ouagadougou: The History Department of Joseph Ki-Zerbo University (UJKZ) has inaugurated an archaeological exhibition at the doctoral school, paying tribute to four esteemed pioneers for their significant contributions to archaeological research in Burkina Faso.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the exhibition, organized by the Laboratory of Archaeology and History of Arts and Techniques (LAHAT), honors Professors Jean-Baptiste Kiethega, Lassina Kot©, Dr. Kalo Antoine Millogo, and Dr. Oumarou Nao, all of whom have recently retired. Their work has significantly influenced the department and the field of archaeology within the country.
The exhibition, themed “400,000 Years of Human Presence in Burkina Faso,” will run from May 8 to July 31, 2025. It explores seven chronological themes: prehistory, ceramics, iron metallurgy, arts, funerary archaeology, architecture, and cultural heritage.
Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, Ardjima Thiombiano, emphasized the dual significance of the event, celebrating both the extensive history of human existence in Burkina Faso and the invaluable contributions of the retiring pioneers. He highlighted the role of UJKZ in promoting Burkinabe cultural heritage through archaeological research.
Dr. Farma Hantissi© Herv©, an archaeologist at UJKZ, noted that the exhibition is a tribute to these pioneers through their own discoveries. The aim is to showcase their findings to the public, reflecting their career-long dedication to uncovering and preserving the historical legacy of Burkina Faso.
The opening event also featured a tribute ceremony led by Minister Thiombiano, further underscoring the importance of these scholars’ work in advancing the country’s archaeological endeavors.