Burkina Faso has turned to science and academic competition as a platform for celebrating young women, introducing a national initiative that rewards female talent in mathematics, physics and chemistry following a suspension of beauty pageants across the country.

The initiative, known as HAKILI Mousso, was launched by the presidency to challenge gender stereotypes and promote the participation of young women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Under the new policy, authorities have suspended the issuance of permits for national, regional and local beauty competitions while developing revised regulations intended to align such events with the country’s cultural and social values.

In contrast, HAKILI Mousso places academic ability at the centre of public recognition, with 84 young women participating in tests covering mathematics, physics and chemistry.

The competition’s outstanding performers received prizes that included two million CFA francs, laptops, motorcycles and government-backed university scholarships, offering the winners financial and educational support to pursue further studies.

President Ibrahim Traoré received the laureates at the presidential palace, where he underscored the importance of female participation in science and the development of technical expertise within Burkina Faso.

Traoré’s message positioned scientific education as more than an individual achievement, presenting the development of home-grown expertise as essential to the country’s long-term progress.

The initiative also signals an effort to expand the platforms through which young women gain public recognition, shifting attention towards academic performance and scientific potential rather than physical appearance.

However, the wider impact of HAKILI Mousso will depend on whether the competition translates into sustained opportunities for girls and young women through access to quality science education, university scholarships and careers in technical fields.