HCRRUN conducted a mid-term evaluation of the results of orphan children benefiting from the scholarship and aid program

Recommendation No. 49 of the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission (CVJR) stipulates “the granting of a scholarship to children who are direct victims of violence, and the granting of annual schooling aid payable for five years to the children of direct victims.” To this end, the High Commissioner for Reconciliation and Strengthening National Unity (HCRRUN) conducted, on September 10 and 11, 2024, at the Concorde Hotel and its headquarters in Lomé respectively, an evaluation of the results of orphan children benefiting from the scholarship and aid program, following its implementation in 2022. These follow-up and exchange meetings successively brought together orphaned pupils and students, as well as apprentices of the direct victims of the unfortunate socio-political events of 2005.

Overall, the evaluation noted encouraging results, in the sense that the beneficiaries are aware of this support related to their situation and are giving their best to succeed in their training or academic career.

“Today more than ever, the President of the Republic is determined to continue offering these vulnerable human beings the help and support they are entitled to expect from the State. In this spirit, the necessary financial resources are being made available to enable HCRRUN to calmly pursue and expand this scholarship and aid program. In this regard, we are pleased to announce that HCRRUN continues to do its part by promptly examining the many requests reaching its office regarding the orphans of 2005,” stated the President of HCRRUN, Mrs. Awa Nana-Daboya, in her introductory remarks. According to her, through these educational and pragmatic meetings, HCRRUN intends not only to applaud those who deserve it, but also to understand those experiencing difficulties in their schooling or training. The objective is to support children and their parents in making efficient use of these scholarships and aids granted for a period of five years.

“I express my encouragement to the beneficiaries regarding the results, but much effort must be made by the children as well as the parents and guardians if we are to benefit from the immense sacrifices the State is making. I urge the children to apply themselves more at school and in their various apprenticeship workshops, and I strongly invite parents to be more demanding, but also affectionate toward these fragile souls, knowing how to use both the carrot and the stick,” emphasized the President of HCRRUN.

It should be noted that sets of school supplies were distributed to children who achieved good academic results.