ECOWAS Resident Rep. Cabo Verde Engages Young Students in Educational Sessions on Regional Integration
By Raymond Enoch
In an effort to deepen the understanding of regional cooperation and integration, the Office of the Resident Representative of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Cabo Verde, in collaboration with the Portuguese School of Cabo Verde (EPCV), conducted a series of interactive educational sessions for young students on March 11th and 12th. 2025
The initiative, aimed at fostering a sense of belonging and regional identity, provided students with a comprehensive introduction to ECOWAS and its significance in shaping the future of West Africa.
The sessions, which were attended by approximately 26 students aged 8 to 9 years old from the 4th-year class of the 1st cycle, lasted for 50 minutes and were designed to engage young minds in discussions about the role and benefits of ECOWAS. These children were not only exposed to key information but also given the opportunity to express their curiosity and deepen their understanding of regional integration, which is vital for the development of their generation.
Structured in two parts, the first segment of the session featured an expository presentation with slides that outlined the core functions and objectives of ECOWAS. Topics covered included the rights and benefits ECOWAS offers to citizens of its member states, along with a clear explanation of the organization’s impact on regional cooperation and development. The second part of the session invited students to actively participate in a dynamic question-and-answer segment. This interactive approach ensured that the students were not passive recipients of information but instead engaged directly with the material.
This educational initiative was launched in response to a partnership request from the Portuguese School of Cabo Verde, underscoring the shared commitment to promoting regional integration among the younger generation. ECOWAS continues to make strides in strengthening its outreach efforts by engaging students in dialogue about the advantages of belonging to such a dynamic regional organization.
Through these sessions, ECOWAS not only provided valuable insights into regional cooperation but also fostered a sense of shared responsibility for the future of the West African community. By educating the next generation, the organization is building a foundation for a stronger, more united region where the principles of peace, stability, and sustainable development can thrive.
The interactive educational sessions in Cabo Verde mark just one step in a broader effort to engage young citizens in the ongoing efforts of ECOWAS. As the organization continues to prioritize regional integration, it remains committed to empowering future generations with the knowledge and tools they need to contribute meaningfully to the development of West Africa.
