- Burkina Faso has launched the HAKILI Mousso science competition after temporarily suspending traditional beauty pageants to review regulations
- The inaugural contest brought together 84 young women who earned science baccalaureates in 2026 and tested their knowledge of mathematics, physics and chemistry
- First-place winners received 2 million CFA francs, a motorcycle, a laptop and additional rewards, while President Ibrahim Traoré later met the winners at the presidential palace
Burkina Faso has shifted the spotlight from traditional beauty pageants to academic achievement with the launch of the HAKILI Mousso competition, which celebrates young women’s abilities in science.
Source: Getty Images
The initiative followed the temporary suspension of beauty pageants as authorities reviewed the regulations governing such events. The new competition puts scientific knowledge and academic performance at the centre of a platform designed to encourage more women to pursue careers in science.
The inaugural event attracted 84 young women from different parts of the West African country. All the participants had earned a science baccalaureate in 2026.
Before the competition, they underwent a week of preparation before sitting examinations in mathematics, physics and chemistry.
The five highest-performing participants in each subject received prizes. Those who secured first place were awarded 2 million CFA francs, a motorcycle, a laptop and other rewards as reported by Briefly News.
Burkina Faso competition challenges stereotypes about women in science
The HAKILI Mousso competition was designed to challenge the perception that science subjects, including mathematics, physics and chemistry, are primarily for men.
By giving young women a platform to demonstrate their scientific abilities, organisers hoped to encourage greater participation in science-related fields and challenge longstanding gender stereotypes.
The initiative also highlights the potential role of competitions and public recognition in inspiring girls to pursue academic and professional opportunities in fields where women have historically faced barriers.
Days after the competition ended, Burkina Faso's President Ibrahim Traoré invited the winners to the presidential palace.
The meeting lasted nearly an hour, with discussions covering science, ambition and the participants' future career goals.
View the Facebook post below:
How social media users reacted to Burkina Faso's science competition
The story was shared by the Tales of Africa Facebook page on October 11, 2026, prompting reactions from people across the continent.
Some commenters praised the initiative and called for other African leaders to adopt similar approaches, while others highlighted the importance of recognising academic achievement.
@Oban Renata wrote: "Waooo I have been thinking of this recently. This is a confirmation it will happen big."
@Hauwa Usman El-marzuq said: "Na gode! [Thank you!] It is time we invest in internal beauty not just external."
@Oskkyy Ggyy added: "I love this. Only if other leaders will emulate him."
@Darlington Mwaza noted: "Well done my President for being so forward thinking."
@Paul Sheppard Jr. asked: "Why not do both?"
@Nwufo L. Oluchukwu shared: "This is the reason why certificates should be valued. Kudos."
The comments reflected different views on the relationship between beauty pageants and academic competitions. While many welcomed the emphasis on scientific achievement, the question of whether both types of events could coexist also emerged.
The HAKILI Mousso competition has brought renewed attention to efforts to recognise young women's academic abilities and encourage their participation in science, technology and other specialised fields.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
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