Ten years later, RFI remembers the tragic assassination of its reporters Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon in Kidal, Mali. On November 2, 2013, these two journalists were on assignment to prepare a series of programs on reconciliation and the reconstruction of the country when they were kidnapped by jihadists and assassinated shortly afterwards.
To commemorate this painful event and honor the passion and professionalism of Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon, RFI is launching the tenth edition of the Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon Scholarship. This grant offers the opportunity to ten young journalists and ten young African technicians to benefit from training in Abidjan. Applications are open to young people under the age of 35 residing in one of the 25 French-speaking countries in Africa.
By paying tribute to these two journalists, RFI also wishes to inspire hope and encourage the new generation of media professionals in Africa. The training, which will take place from October 16 to 29, 2023, will allow selected candidates to follow practical workshops and produce a report or a sound element. A jury made up of representatives from RFI, the Ivorian press, the Sciences Po School of Journalism and INA will select the winners in each category.
The award will take place on November 2, in commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. The winners will also benefit from a one-month training in Paris to develop their skills and career path.
Applications are open until August 25. Interested parties must complete the participation form, provide their curriculum vitae and cover letter, as well as an example of their journalistic or technical work.
This scholarship is a testament to RFI’s commitment to press freedom and the training of young media professionals in Africa. By perpetuating the memory of Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon, RFI wishes to inspire and support the next generation of journalists on the continent