President of the Republic of Burundi and Commander-in-Chief of the Defense and Security Forces, Evariste Ndayishimiye, officially opened the 2025-2026 academic year at the Institut supérieur des cadres militaires (Iscam). The ceremony, presided over by President Ndayishimiye, marked the commencement of studies for the upcoming academic period at the institution, setting the tone for the institution's educational and strategic objectives. This significant event took place on Friday, June 12, 2026, drawing attention to the continuous development and modernization of Burundi's defense capabilities.
Ceremony Notes and Student Focus
President Evariste Ndayishimiye advised laureates and current students of the Institut supérieur des cadres militaires (Iscam) to be guided by the core values of discipline, loyalty, and obedience. He showed that these foundational military principles are essential for all attendees, forming the bedrock of effective leadership and service within the armed forces. The opening ceremonies for the 2025-2026 academic year featured several key events that noted the institution's commitment to tradition and future readiness.
Among these was the definitive incorporation of candidates belonging to the 55th promotion, officially marking their entry into the institution. This ceremony symbolized their formal commitment to military service and the rigorous training ahead. Additionally, the ceremonies included a formal handover between the 51st and 52nd promotions, signifying a transition of responsibilities or academic stages, and demonstrating the progression within Iscam's structured educational path. A central part of the event was the awarding of diplomas and the presentation of oaths to the laureates of the 50th promotion. This segment recognized their successful completion of studies and their commitment to service, as they formally pledged their allegiance and dedication to the nation's defense. The President's address reinforced the profound importance of these ceremonies, emphasizing their role in shaping future military leaders.
ISCAM's Role and Future Vision
The academic year's theme at the Institut supérieur des cadres militaires (Iscam) is « L’Iscam pour une formation des futurs meneurs d’hommes capables de mobiliser le savoir au bénéfice de la défense nationale » (Iscam for the training of future leaders capable of mobilizing knowledge for the benefit of national defense). This theme encapsulates the institution's strategic focus on developing highly competent and knowledgeable military personnel. President Evariste Ndayishimiye stated that Burundian forces are respected internationally for their exceptional know-how, a testament to their professionalism and effectiveness. He affirmed the government's continued commitment to developing the Burundian army, aiming to make it more professional and modern, ensuring it remains a formidable force for national security and regional stability.
President Ndayishimiye noted significant progress and ongoing projects at Iscam, confirming that efforts are underway to equip the institution with modern material necessary for its mission. These enhancements are key for providing students with the best possible training environment and tools. He articulated a clear vision for the institution, saying, "Notre souhait est que l’Iscam devienne le miroir et serve de modèle à suivre pour les autres pays africains." (Our wish is for Iscam to become the mirror and serve as a model for other African countries.) This ambition reflects a desire for Iscam to set a benchmark for military education across the continent. He also referenced the international reputation of Burundi's military, noting, "En Somalie, la mission de maintien de la paix avait arrivé à sa terme. Mais, le mandat pour nos troupes a été renouvelé. Nos forces continuent de rayonner sur l’échiquier tant national, régional que continental." (In Somalia, the peacekeeping mission had come to an end. But the mandate for our troops was renewed. Our forces continue to shine on the national, regional, and continental stage.) General Prime Niyongabo, Chief of the Force de Défense Nationale du Burundi (FDNB), praised the Burundian government's efforts to develop the army, acknowledging the significant investments and strategic planning involved.
President's Call for Excellence
The opening ceremony for the academic year occurred on Friday, June 12, 2026. During the event, President Evariste Ndayishimiye observed a strong mobilization and enthusiasm among Burundian youth to join the defense corps. This encouraging trend indicates a sustained interest in military service and a commitment to national defense. He expressed his aspiration for the institution, stating, "Our wish is for Iscam to become the mirror and serve as a model for other African countries," a sentiment that shows the high standards and regional leadership role envisioned for Iscam.
Colonel Jonas Sabushimike, Commander of the Institut supérieur des cadres militaires (Iscam), outlined several challenges facing the institution. These include an insufficient budget, which impacts various operational aspects, a lack of laboratory equipment essential for practical training, a small library that limits access to full resources, and outdated computers that hinder technological proficiency. Colonel Sabushimike also cited an insufficient information technology park and an unstable internet connection as significant hurdles, all of which impede the institution's ability to fully embrace modern educational methods and research. Despite these challenges, the commitment to overcoming them remains strong.
Burundian troops are actively involved in peacekeeping missions across the continent, including deployments in Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Central African Republic. The President noted the continued international recognition of Burundi's military contributions, which reflects positively on the training and discipline instilled at institutions like Iscam. He noted that although the peacekeeping mission in Somalia had concluded its term, the mandate for Burundian troops there was subsequently renewed, a clear indication of their valued role in maintaining peace and stability. President Ndayishimiye emphasized this point, stating, "In Somalia, the peacekeeping mission had come to an end. But the mandate for our troops was renewed. Our forces continue to shine on the national, regional, and continental stage." This renewal shows the international community's trust in the capabilities and professionalism of Burundian forces, reinforcing the importance of Iscam's mission in developing future leaders.
