Chekpo Marie-Ange S. D., a 15-year-old student from Benin, has emerged as the winner of the 1st National Prize in Benin and the 4th Global Prize in the 55th International Letter-Writing Contest (55th CICE). The contest, organized by the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 2026, attracted 1,480,000 candidates from 65 countries. Marie-Ange, a student at CS Le Bon Berger de Godomey, was recognized for her exceptional writing skills.
The 55th CICE, an annual contest that showcases young writing talents worldwide, invited participants to write a letter highlighting the importance of human connections and empathy in the digital age. Marie-Ange's outstanding performance not only earned her a prestigious award but also brought honor to Benin, which is the only African country represented in the top 7 rankings. Her letter was recognized by the international jury, which awarded her a special mention.
The global rankings for the 55th CICE were as follows: China won the Gold Medal, Portugal won the Silver Medal, and Iran won the Bronze Medal. Marie-Ange, representing Benin, secured the 4th position, followed by Barbados, Cyprus, and Vietnam, which took the 5th, 6th, and 7th positions, respectively. This remarkable achievement demonstrates Benin's potential in nurturing young writing talents.
According to the source, Marie-Ange is a student in her second year of secondary school (Seconde G2) at CS Le Bon Berger de Godomey. Her success in the contest is an inspiration to her peers and a testament to the quality of education in Benin. The UPU's International Letter-Writing Contest has been promoting young writing talents for several years, and Marie-Ange's achievement is a notable milestone for Benin.
The theme of the 55th CICE, which focused on the importance of human connections and empathy in the digital age, was well-represented in Marie-Ange's winning letter. Her composition stood out among those of the other contestants, showcasing her exceptional writing skills and creativity. The contest aims to encourage young people to express themselves through writing and to promote international understanding.
Marie-Ange's achievement has been celebrated in Benin, with many congratulating her on her success. Her win is seen as a source of pride for the country, and it is expected to inspire other young people to participate in similar contests. The UPU's International Letter-Writing Contest provides a platform for young writers to showcase their talents and connect with others from around the world.
The recognition of Marie-Ange's talent has also highlighted the importance of promoting literacy and writing skills in schools. Her success demonstrates that with dedication and hard work, young people can achieve great things and make a positive impact on their communities. As Benin continues to develop its education sector, Marie-Ange's achievement serves as a motivation for other students to strive for excellence.
Key points
- Chekpo Marie-Ange, a 15-year-old student from Benin, won the 1st National Prize and the 4th Global Prize in the 55th International Letter-Writing Contest.
