Are you a Burkinabé student wishing to continue your studies in France? You may have had difficulty obtaining a visa in recent months, and you are not the only one. Indeed, for several months, the issuance of visas for France has been suspended in several countries, including Burkina Faso, due to security concerns.
According to recent statistics, only 132 visas have been granted to Burkinabé applicants since last August. These allocations are made on a case-by-case basis, with priority given to medical students and profiles considered essential such as artists, researchers and intellectuals.
However, this visa limitation poses a real challenge for Burkinabé students who wish to continue their studies in France. Reduced staffing at the French consulate in Ouagadougou leads to waiting times and additional administrative complications.
Faced with this situation, many Burkinabe students are turning to other countries to continue their studies. Some choose Belgium as an alternative, while others explore opportunities in other European countries and even beyond.
This situation has consequences on the number of Burkinabé students who can study in France. In 2022, only 2,500 students were able to benefit from a scholarship to continue their studies in France. This limits access to French higher education for Burkinabé students, who could benefit from the specialized training offered in the country.
Despite the obstacles, the French authorities want to be reassuring by affirming that students, researchers, artists and intellectuals are always welcome in France. However, it is essential to find solutions to facilitate access to visas and simplify administrative procedures for Burkinabé students.
In conclusion, the reduction of visas for Burkinabé students wishing to study in France poses a major challenge. However, it is essential to continue to encourage exchanges and intellectual collaborations between France and Burkina Faso in order to allow students to pursue their academic career in optimal conditions.