By Etop Ekanem

A PhD candidate specialising in Francophone African literature and women’s contributions to shaping public perceptions of migration and insecurity, Diweng Dafong, has been recognised with the Outstanding Graduate Student Award at Alabama, USA.

Disclosing this in a statement recently, she underscored the significance of her research in highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in Burkina Faso, including limited access to education and economic opportunities, violence, and human trafficking.

She explained that women in Burkina Faso face significant challenges, including limited access to education and economic opportunities, violence, exploitation, and human trafficking. 

She said: “These issues are often exacerbated by societal norms and stereotypes that marginalize their voices and perspectives. Non-inclusiveness and insecurity are pervasive problems that affect their lives, limiting their ability to participate fully in society.

“In Burkina Faso, individuals are disproportionately affected by insecurity, including terrorism and armed conflict, leading to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and increased vulnerability. This has led to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and increased vulnerability to violence and exploitation. 

“Their experiences are often overlooked in discussions of migration and insecurity, perpetuating stereotypes and misconceptions about their roles and contributions.”

Dafong’s research focuses on Francophone African literature, with a particular emphasis on female writers and filmmakers from Burkina Faso. 

Her work examines how women contribute to shaping public perceptions of migration and insecurity in the country through the works of notable writers such as Monique Ilboudo, Roukiata Ouedraogo, and Apolline Traoré.

Her research has the potential to promote greater understanding and empathy, and to inform policies and interventions that address the root causes of migration and insecurity.

Her research highlights the need for more inclusive and equitable solutions to address these challenges.

Dafong’s academic achievements are notable. She was awarded the Best New Graduate Student (French) by the Department of Modern Languages and Classics in 2023, Prix d’Excellence in Research and Teaching in 2024, Excellence Service Award in 2025, and Outstanding Graduate Student Award in 2025.

She has attended ten conferences, presented at more than ten, and received travel grants to support her research. 

She also served as the Registration Chair of the University of Alabama Language Conference and represented Nigeria at the Rock Quarry Elementary School International Day Celebration. 

Additionally, Dafong has been actively involved in community service, serving as Treasurer of the University of Alabama International Students Association,

Vice-President Community Engagement (2024), Vice-President Opportunities, Connections and Success (2025) and Vice-President of the Graduate Students Association.

With her impressive academic credentials, extensive community service experience, and passion for promoting the voices of women in Burkina Faso, she is poised to make a significant impact in her field and beyond.