The article you are about to read concerns a significant event which took place at the Pullman Hotel Lubumbashi, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The President of the Denise NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI Foundation brought together nearly one hundred and eighty students from twenty different schools in the Haut Katanga province in order to raise their awareness of the EXCELLENTIA program, which aims to promote academic excellence among young people.
The objective of this meeting was to introduce the EXCELLENTIA program to students in the region. This initiative offers scholarships to winners of the state exam who obtain a score of at least 85%. The President underlined the importance of this commitment to excellence, affirming that young people are the future of the country and that they have the potential to become tomorrow’s elite.
During the event, students were also made aware of sickle cell disease, the world’s leading genetic disease. Doctor Kadhy NSINGI led an information session on this disease, highlighting the dangers it represents and the importance of getting tested.
Denise NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI insisted on the essential role of young people in the prevention and fight against sickle cell disease. She announced that certain hospitals in Lubumbashi would provide screening kits for students. She strongly encouraged young people to get tested, highlighting the devastating consequences of this disease on families and society as a whole.
Scholars from the first edition of the EXCELLENTIA program were present at this event, serving as an inspiring example for future laureates. To date, the EXCELLENTIA program is in its fourth edition and already has 241 scholarship holders, including 82 who are continuing their studies abroad, notably in Morocco, France and the United States.
In conclusion, this meeting organized by the Denise NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI Foundation made it possible to raise awareness among students in the Haut Katanga province about the EXCELLENTIA program and sickle cell anemia. This initiative aims to promote academic excellence and combat a devastating genetic disease. It offers young people the opportunity to continue their studies and become tomorrow’s elite. A great example of commitment to education and health in the Democratic Republic of Congo.