Koudougou – In a surprise visit to assess academic progress, the Minister of Higher Education, Professor Adjima Thiombiano, addressed students in Koudougou, emphasizing the need for them to actively communicate the improvements made in university conditions and combat misinformation.

According to Burkina Information Agency, during his address on Thursday, September 5, 2024, Professor Thiombiano acknowledged existing limitations but highlighted significant government efforts to enhance the educational environment. He criticized the pervasive negative narratives and encouraged students to correct misconceptions about the actions taken by the authorities. “When someone tells you something without justification about our actions, prove them wrong. So, together, we will fight against misinformation about the efforts made in universities,” he stated.

The minister pointed out that many students remain silent about positive changes, such as the resolved issues with internet connectivity, which has notably improved the efficiency of the License-Master-Doctorate (LMD) system. He expressed concern that without active participation from students in spreading accurate information, detractors continue to dominate the discourse, overshadowing progress.

Professor Thiombiano’s visit also highlighted the implementation of vacation courses designed to address academic delays. He commended both students and teachers who sacrificed their holidays to participate, underscoring the initiative as a step towards overcoming educational challenges. The minister called for a collective effort to acknowledge and build on the improvements, making a case for the role of students in this dynamic.

The appeal for proactive communication from students reflects a broader effort by the education department to ensure stakeholders are well-informed and engaged in the ongoing development of the university system in Burkina Faso.