Having graduated with a Master's degree in Modern Literature in 2001 and a canonical doctorate in 2004, Mgr Gonsallo recounts his inspiring journey alongside Clément Bedouet, head of international recruitment at UCO and former UCO student (Master LEA LACISE, 2013).

The video has been subtitled due to the sound quality. We apologize for the issue encountered with the microphone.

Born in Cotonou, Mgr Aristide Gonsallo grew up in Parakou where he attended the local school before entering the seminary of the archdiocese.

The choice of UCO was made thanks to the encouragement of the bishop of Parakou, Monsignor Nestor Assogba, himself a former student of the Catholic University of the West. Monsignor Gonsallo spent several years at UCO, where he prepared his Master's degree in literature while also pursuing studies in theology.

His experience at UCO provided him with solid training and enriching exchanges with other students: "all the training we received at UCO was truly a springboard to bounce back in life!"

In addition to his episcopal responsibilities, Monsignor Gonsallo is a man of letters. He writes poems inspired by various themes, both religious and secular. His travels and observations fuel his poetic inspiration, and several of his collections have been published.

For students and the UCO Alumni community, Monsignor Gonsallo encourages self-learning and self-discipline to succeed in life: "whoever says rigor, says success".

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