Blue circle competition organised by the NGO VISA/ Student finalists on a civic immersion tour to reinforce their culture

---

Extract from the article: On 25 April 2025, the NGO International Volunteers for Health Promotion in Africa (VISA) organised a civic immersion tour for students who were finalists in the Cercle Bleu competition, an annual competition on diabetes. The aim of the tour, which w

---

On 25 April 2025, the NGO International Volunteers for Health Promotion in Africa (VISA) organised a civic immersion tour for students who were finalists in the Cercle Bleu competition, an annual competition on diabetes.  The aim of the tour, which was part of the celebrations marking the 65th anniversary of Togo's independence, was to awaken patriotism and prepare the finalists for the citizenship issues that will be addressed in the final, scheduled for 27 April. This initiative underlines the holistic approach of the NGO VISA to diabetes prevention among young Togolese.

The Citizenship Immersion Tour is all about exchange, competition and learning. It brought together a total of 48 finalists in the Cercle Bleu competition, i.e. 06 competitors from each of the 08 lycées (NDA, Kouvahey, Agoè, Adidogomé I, Agbalépédo Protestant Complex, NEEA, Institut Saint-Françis and Le Jourdain).  The day was punctuated by a number of significant visits, starting at the National Assembly, where the young people were able to learn how the legislative body works and its role for citizens. They then took part in a conference on the legacy of independence at emblematic venues such as the Hôtel Lébènè before moving on to the Hôtel du 2 Février.

At the National Olympic Committee of Togo (CNOT), young people were made aware of the fundamental values of Olympism and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, essential in the prevention of diabetes. CNOT vice-president Adiho Peace stressed the importance of respecting oneself, others and the environment, fostering a culture of friendship to promote a positive climate, and surpassing oneself through the pursuit of excellence. These principles, which go beyond the realms of sport, form the basis for individual and collective fulfilment, and indirectly contribute to better health by encouraging responsible behaviour and general well-being.  The finalists also visited Hôtel Sarakawa and Société Générale de Métaux Finances (SOGEMEF), a partner in the competition, where they received advice on future financial management.

« The aim of the visit is to give children and young people an insight into the realities of our country in certain respects, and to provide them with answers to the citizenship questions that will be asked in the final of the competition. We also want to instil in them values that are essential for their future as conscious Togolese citizens committed to promoting health », emphasised Dr Damien Ekoué-Kouvahey, Executive Director of the NGO VISA.

The visit reaffirmed the NGO VISA's commitment to offering students high-quality academic and extra-curricular experiences, conducive to their personal and intellectual development. The smiles, the exchanges and the memories etched in people's minds are all testament to the success of this initiative. The final of the competition will be held this Sunday 27 April at the headquarters of the NGO VISA.

Esther KOLANI