Bogande: The most deserving students of the Centers for the Development of Children and Youth (CDEJ) were rewarded on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Bogande, on the occasion of the second edition of the School Excellence Day organized by the Evangelical Churches and the local community, in partnership with Compassion International Burkina Faso (CIBF).

According to Burkina Information Agency, the awards ceremony recognized several students for their academic achievements, bringing joy and pride to the recipients, their parents, and their teachers. These awards aim to encourage perseverance, boost student motivation, and promote healthy competition within schools.

In total, 20 students received excellence awards consisting of school kits, a dictionary, and a solar lamp. Four of them also received bicycles in addition to these school supplies. Partners, including technical services and security personnel, received certificates of appreciation.

The ceremony, held in the courtyard of the Bogande Town Hall, the capital of the Gnagna province, brought together administrative, educational, religious, and customary authorities, as well as parents and students who came to celebrate academic excellence.

In his address, the chairman of the organizing committee, Ezekiel Haro, stated that this initiative aims to recognize the efforts made by students and to encourage a culture of excellence in schools. He also commended the commitment of parents, teachers, and partners who contribute to the children's development.

Speaking on behalf of the educational administration, the representative of the provincial director of preschool, primary and non-formal education in Gnagna, Amadou Thiombiano, congratulated the organizers for this initiative, which he described as important for the promotion of academic excellence.

The second vice-president of the Bogande special delegation, Oumarou Tindano, encouraged the students to continue their studies and urged parents to strengthen their support for their children's education.

The ceremony also featured artistic and cultural performances showcasing the talents of the children from the CDEJ. The Shalom group from CDEJ BF0216 presented a ballet that was well-received by the audience, while the Bao Ti Son FTo group from CDEJ BF0625 offered a poetic recitation. The Yienuhamma group from CDEJ BF0224 and the traditional dance troupe from CDEJ BF0215 in Nagare also entertained the crowd.

The ceremony began with an opening prayer led by Elder Mathias Lankoande, followed by a welcome address from Pastor Djingri Lankoande. In an exhortation addressed to parents and young people, Pastor Jean Kabore emphasized the importance of family guidance in raising children.

The municipality of Bogande has four CDEJs with 1,155 students benefiting from the program, including 552 students enrolled in primary school and 603 in post-primary school. Through this School Excellence Day, the Bogande CDEJs intend to strengthen their commitment to the academic success and moral, spiritual, and social development of children and young people.