Kaya: The Regional Directorate of Higher Education, Research and Innovation of Koulse (DRESRI-KLS) organized an awareness meeting on Monday in Kaya regarding educational reforms and ongoing research projects in the region. The meeting brought together local stakeholders, officials from structures within the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MESRI), regional structures, and key players, with the aim of communicating on the new reforms undertaken by MESRI and presenting ongoing research projects in the region.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the regional director of DRESRI-KLS, Dr. Antarou Ly, stated that the main objective of this initiative is to promote the appropriation of educational reforms by actors in the ministry and local populations, while strengthening their socio-economic impact. He indicated that research and innovation must be put at the service of local development and respond to the real needs of the population.
In his opening speech, the governor of the Koulse region, Colonel-Major Z. Blaise Ouedraogo, reaffirmed the Burkinabe government's commitment to adapting higher education, research and innovation to the requirements of the country's socio-economic development. He emphasized the authorities' commitment to building a unified, coherent and effective education system capable of producing responsible, competent and creative citizens.
The governor also stressed the importance of bringing research closer to local realities and strengthening the synergy between researchers, institutions and regional actors. He highlighted the need to increase the frameworks for exchange and communication in order to better inform the population and to allow research results to contribute effectively to the development of the region.
The presentations given by local public and private organizations, as well as by the technical departments of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MESRI), were well received by the participants. They allowed the various organizations to present their missions and research projects. Participants were also informed of the new reforms underway, including the university map and the new study system, designed to transform universities into centers of excellence.
The ensuing discussions raised concerns and provided suggestions for better implementation of reforms and wider dissemination of research results. Looking ahead, DRESRI-KLS plans to open a national bank of plant genetic resources to contribute to food security by making genetic material available to farmers and researchers. A round table is also announced for 2026 with a view to gathering sectoral research needs and to guide actions in a more targeted way.
This meeting thus marks an important step in raising awareness and engaging local stakeholders in support of educational reforms and research projects, which are essential for the socio-economic development of the Koulse region.