Ex-soldiers share values with university students
Ouagadougou conference aimed to instill patriotism, discipline, and resilience in young people.
Former military officials shared their professional and human experiences with students at Université Thomas Sankara in Ouagadougou on November 9, 2026. The conference, organized by the Delegation for Veterans and Former Soldiers (DACAM), aimed to promote patriotism, discipline, resilience, and dedication to the nation among the youth. The event included a flag-raising ceremony, a baobab tree planting, and a panel discussion led by retired senior military officers.
Colonel William Aristide Nassidja Combari, delegate for veterans and former soldiers, stated that the initiative aims to leverage the experience of former military personnel to guide young people in their personal and professional lives. General Lougué Kouamé, with nearly 42 years of service, urged students to prioritize national interest over personal ambitions during the panel. The university president highlighted that the values of engagement, resilience, and patriotism are also guiding principles for university life, citing efforts to normalize academic years 2025-2026.
The DACAM, under the Ministry of War and Patriotic Defense, is responsible for managing veterans and former soldiers, defending their rights, and valuing their experience. Its motto, 'Honoring the past, illuminating the future,' inspired this intergenerational knowledge transfer. The university president also noted the contributions of teachers, administrative staff, and students to the institution's reputation and encouraged students to learn from the former soldiers' testimonies.
Why it mattersUniversity students in Ouagadougou heard from former military leaders about patriotism and national service.