Ouagadougou: Former and current students of the Institute of Documentary Information Sciences and Techniques (ISTID) gathered at the National Archives to commemorate the institution’s 20th anniversary. The celebration, held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, was a tribute to the builders of ISTID, focusing on recognition and memory.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event featured a conference themed “Archives in the Digital Age,” led by Pascal Soubeiga, the new Director General of ISTID, and moderated by Habibou Ouattara, a teacher at the institute. The celebration aimed to honor all individuals who have contributed to ISTID’s academic and professional prominence since its inception.
ISTID holds the distinction of being Burkina Faso’s first private school dedicated to training archivists, documentalists, and librarians, with over 400 professionals currently trained through its programs. During the anniversary ceremony, numerous certificates of recognition and symbolic gifts were awarded to deserving individuals.
Posthumous honors were presented to four deceased educators: Ibrahim Cisse, Martin Saka, Edouard Sawadogo, and Germaine Sawadogo. Additional accolades were given to the founder of ISTID, Ther¨se Hien, outgoing Director General Djibrilou Tamboura, the organizing committee, and all institute teachers.
A special recognition was made for Nikiema Maxime, the general supervisor, acknowledged as “the focal point of the institution,” for his dedication and availability. He received a certificate and a gift in appreciation of his contributions.
The ceremony concluded with the symbolic blowing out of candles celebrating ISTID’s 20th anniversary, followed by a family photo, a shared meal, and moments of camaraderie among attendees.