Title: Raising student awareness of academic excellence and sickle cell disease during an event organized by the Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi Foundation
Introduction :
The Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi Foundation recently organized an awareness event in Lubumbashi, bringing together around 180 students from 20 schools in Haut Katanga. The objective of this event was to promote academic excellence through the EXCELLENTIA program, while raising awareness among students about sickle cell disease, which is the world’s leading genetic disease. The First Lady, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, encouraged students to invest in their studies and to get tested for this disease.
Development :
The event began with an educational session led by Doctor Kadhy Nsingi, who informed the students about sickle cell anemia, its harms and its prevention. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi took the floor to underline the importance of academic excellence in the development of the country. She encouraged students to aim for a minimum grade of 85% to be eligible for a scholarship at a local university or abroad.
The First Lady also emphasized the importance of awareness and prevention of sickle cell disease. She stressed that this disease destroys families and lives, and urged students to get tested. To facilitate screening, kits will soon be made available to them in certain hospital centers in Lubumbashi.
During this event, some scholarship holders from the first edition of the EXCELLENTIA program were present to inspire future winners. The EXCELLENTIA program, which is in its fourth edition, aims to reward academic excellence by granting scholarships to students who obtain at least 85% on the state exam. The goal is to award 1000 local scholarships and 100 international scholarships.
Conclusion :
Raising awareness of academic excellence and sickle cell disease is a major issue for the development of society. The event organized by the Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi Foundation highlighted these two themes and encouraged students to invest in their studies and take care of their health. Thanks to the EXCELLENTIA program, numerous study opportunities will be offered to young talents, thus contributing to the training of tomorrow’s elite.