Children Believe, in collaboration with Educo and the Centre Diocésain de Communication, has implemented the Project to Strengthen Integrated Protection and Education Services. The project aims to improve access to quality education for girls and boys in a safe and equitable learning environment. As part of this project, Children Believe has awarded 300 scholarships to students in seven communes across three regions of Burkina Faso.
The scholarship recipients, selected in collaboration with state technical services, include 200 girls and 100 boys. They will each receive a scholarship of 40,000 FCFA through the provincial directorate of the Family and Solidarity. The scholarships are designed to address socio-economic obstacles to education and promote academic excellence. This initiative is part of Children Believe's efforts to support vulnerable children, including internally displaced persons and survivors of gender-based violence.
The ceremony to award the scholarships took place in Léo, the capital of the Sissili province. In addition to the scholarships, Children Believe has also provided furniture and equipment to the public primary school in Nabanassin. The organization's goal is to ensure that children, particularly girls, have access to quality education and opportunities to succeed. Thierry Zongo, Program Manager at Children Believe, emphasized that education is key to transforming families, communities, and nations.
According to Thierry Zongo, the scholarships are not only financial assistance but also an act of solidarity and investment in the future. The program aims to prevent school dropouts, early marriage, and exploitation. Children Believe has supported 700 students with scholarships since the project's inception. This year, in addition to the 300 scholarships, the organization will directly support the educational needs of 500 other students.
The project also includes the development of community digital protection centers within child-friendly spaces. These centers provide a safe learning environment and prevent child protection risks through the use of technology. Children Believe works closely with state technical services and community mechanisms to ensure the protection and education of children. The organization is committed to promoting equal opportunities and protecting children's rights.
The Director Provincial of Secondary Education and Vocational Training in Sissili, L. Serge Toé, expressed gratitude for the scholarships and emphasized the importance of equal access to education for all Burkinabè children. He encouraged students, parents, and education stakeholders to work together to ensure that children have the opportunity to succeed. The scholarships are a testament to the partnership between Children Believe and the Burkinabè government to support education and child protection.
Children Believe's initiative is part of a broader effort to promote education and protect children's rights in Burkina Faso. The organization's work aligns with the government's vision to ensure that every child has the opportunity to realize their potential. By supporting education and protecting children, Children Believe aims to contribute to the development of a more equitable and prosperous society.
Key points
- Children Believe awards 300 scholarships to students in Burkina Faso as part of its Project to Strengthen Integrated Protection and Education Services.
