ECOWAS Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Creative Workshops for Benin Students
Published: April 29, 2025
Empowering Youth Through Art and Education
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) marked its 50th anniversary in Benin with a series of innovative creative and educational workshops. Held from April 11-14, 2025 at Collège d’Enseignement Général (CEG) Gbégamey, these sessions engaged 30 students aged 11-19 in artistic exploration and discussions about regional unity.
Artistic Expression Meets Regional Values
With guidance from professional artists at Ateliers Sika, participants developed their creative skills while reflecting on core ECOWAS principles of peace, unity, and integration. The workshops culminated in a showcase of inspiring artworks that demonstrated the students’ vision for West Africa’s future.
Youth as Future Leaders
The initiative highlighted ECOWAS’s commitment to youth development, with Ambassador Amadou Diongue, ECOWAS Resident Representative, emphasizing young people’s role in shaping the region’s prosperity. The students’ powerful creations reinforced this vision, showcasing their potential as tomorrow’s leaders.
High-Profile Participation
The ceremonies attracted notable attendees including education officials, local representatives, and school administrators, underscoring the importance of this youth-focused initiative in Benin’s educational landscape.