News: Suspensions of school heads in Tshuapa for fraud in the 2023 State Examination
In the province of Tshuapa, located in Boende in the Democratic Republic of Congo, four heads of establishments have been preventively suspended from their duties. This measure was taken following accusations of coining points called “E-13” and raising the cost of participating in the 2023 State Examination.
According to Prosper Bakoli, provincial director of primary, secondary and technical education (Epst) of the Tshuapa, these heads of establishments are accused of having set participation fees for the State Examination much higher than those established by the provincial governor. While the costs were set at 60,000 FC (Congolese francs), the offending prefects allegedly demanded amounts of up to 280,000 FC. Some parents would even have contributed to these sums.
To put an end to these fraudulent practices, dissuasive measures were taken by the provincial direction of Epst. The suspended prefects were not relieved of their duties, but were prohibited from participating in all operations related to the organization of the State Examination.
However, Prosper Bakoli recognizes that among the heads of suspended establishments, some could be innocent. It is therefore a precautionary measure aimed at discouraging such fraudulent actions.
The suspension of these headteachers shows the willingness of education authorities to fight corruption and ensure the integrity of the State Examination process. The State Examination in the DRC is a crucial step for Congolese students, as it determines their access to higher education and better professional opportunities.
This case highlights the importance of establishing transparency and control mechanisms to prevent fraudulent practices and ensure equal opportunities for all students. It is essential that the education system guarantees an environment conducive to learning and success for young Congolese, by putting an end to corrupt behavior and punishing those responsible.
The preventive suspension of school principals in Tshuapa sends a clear message that cheating will not be tolerated and steps will be taken to preserve the integrity of the State Examination. This will help to strengthen the confidence of students, parents and the population in the Congolese education system.