Bénin : nouveau souffle pour la protection de l’enfance avec des éducateurs spécialisés

Bénin bolstered its child protection services with a new cohort of specialized educators. The School of Training for Judicial Professions (EFPJ) in Abomey-Calavi hosted the official graduation ceremony for supervised education trainees on Friday, April 17, 2026, concluding an intensive twelve-month training program. This initiative injects new vitality into the juvenile justice system.

After a year of dedicated effort, these newly qualified professionals are ready to enter the field. This group of agents, specializing in the protection of children and adolescents, will strengthen a vital sector within Benin’s judicial framework. The solemn ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Mr. Florentin Gbodou, Cabinet Director for the Minister of Justice, and Mrs. Bernadette Houndekandji Codjovi, Director of the EFPJ.

Elite training blending theory and practice

During the event, the EFPJ Director highlighted curriculum enhancements. The training program is now structured into two key phases:

• Six months dedicated to theoretical studies, establishing a strong foundation in legal and pedagogical principles.
• Six months of practical application, offering direct immersion into the realities of the profession.

“Your mission with minors in conflict with the law or in situations of moral danger is crucial for strengthening our judicial protection system,” Mrs. Bernadette Houndekandji Codjovi emphasized to the graduates.

Responsibility and humanism guide the new educators

Representing his peers, Mr. Dalil Bankolé Idohou, spokesperson for the graduating class, expressed profound gratitude to the teaching staff. He reaffirmed the cohort’s commitment to practicing their profession guided by a clear triad: responsibility, humanism, and professionalism.

Mr. Florentin Gbodou, representing the Keeper of the Seals, urged the new agents to uphold integrity through:

• Rigorous case management.
• Dedicated service to vulnerable children.
• Proactive prevention of juvenile delinquency.

Immediate deployment anticipated

A symbolic presentation of diplomas marked a highlight of the ceremony. These newly trained professionals will soon be assigned by the Keeper of the Seals to various supervised education facilities across the nation.

This graduation signifies another step forward in modernizing Benin’s justice system, prioritizing education and social reintegration in the care of young individuals.