M. Souleymane Saidou Boulhassan, Secretary General of the Agadez Governorate, presided over the opening ceremony of a workshop on communication techniques for behavioral change focused on responsible citizenship. The event took place in the meeting room of the Chamber of Commerce in Agadez. Mr. Boulhassan stated that "communication for behavioral change (CCC) that you will address during these three days is a solution to the diagnosed problems." He added that participants should "promote responsible citizenship where the user feels they are a key player in their development, their region, and even their country." Mr. Boulhassan urged attendees to "be interactive and appropriate these tools so that at the end of this workshop, every interaction in your services becomes an act of consolidating peace and social cohesion in Agadez." The workshop's theme, 'Communication techniques for behavioral change focused on responsible citizenship,' shows its core mission.
Workshop Objectives and Scope
The workshop targets agents from reception, orientation, and public relations services. This specific focus ensures that those directly interacting with the public are equipped with enhanced communication skills. NGO JEPADE organized the event, which forms part of its 'Projet de Renforcement du Dialogue Constructif Citoyen entre les acteurs publics et privés'. This full project aims to strengthen constructive citizen dialogue between public and private actors, fostering a more collaborative environment. The initiative receives funding from the Federal Republic of Germany through GIZ, specifically via its 'Projet PAMO' (Projet d’appui à la mise en œuvre de la Stratégie de Développement Socioéconomique du Niger). The 'Projet PAMO' itself is dedicated to supporting the implementation of Niger's Socioeconomic Development Strategy, noting the broader national significance of this local workshop. The training program is scheduled to run for three days in Agadez, providing ample time for in-depth learning and practical application.
Key Principles for Public Service
The workshop's opening ceremony occurred on Thursday, September 17, 2026. During the event, the Secretary General emphasized several core principles for public service, which are integral to fostering effective public engagement and trust. He noted the critical importance of agents' availability and their capacity for active listening when engaging with citizens. These attributes are essential for understanding public needs and concerns. He also showed the necessity of providing a good reception, ensuring prompt handling of inquiries, and strictly adhering to established schedules and rules. These operational standards contribute significantly to public satisfaction and efficiency. Professional competence was identified as a key factor, ensuring that public servants possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. Alongside this, the provision of clear recourse mechanisms for citizens was stressed, allowing individuals to address grievances or seek clarification. Finally, the Secretary General stressed the need for continuous awareness efforts to better serve the public, indicating an ongoing commitment to improvement and responsiveness.
Call for Interactive Engagement
Participants in the workshop were encouraged to actively engage with the training material. This interactive approach is designed to facilitate a deeper understanding and practical application of the communication techniques being taught. The stated objective was for attendees to adopt the tools and techniques presented, thereby contributing to the consolidation of peace and social cohesion within Agadez. By integrating these new skills into their daily interactions, public service agents can play a vital role in building stronger community bonds and resolving conflicts. This emphasis on interaction aims to equip public service agents with practical skills to enhance community dialogue, transforming routine interactions into opportunities for positive civic engagement.
Broader Impact and Vision
Communication for behavioral change (CCC) is presented as a key solution to identified issues, according to workshop organizers. This approach seeks to address underlying challenges by influencing public attitudes and actions. The initiative aims to foster a sense of ownership among citizens, moving them from passive recipients of services to active participants in their community's development. The ultimate goal is for users to feel like key actors in their personal development, as well as in the progress of their region and the entire country. This full approach seeks to empower individuals to contribute actively to their communities, promoting a more engaged and responsible citizenry across Agadez and beyond.