Back to school in the Democratic Republic of Congo: a persistent challenge
Every year, the start of the school year is a crucial moment for Congolese students, but it is also a reflection of the deep problems that persist in the country’s education system. The difficulties are numerous, ranging from limited access to school supplies to problems of insecurity which hinder the education of children.
Indeed, the province of North Kivu is particularly affected by the insecurity caused by armed rebel groups, which are causing massive population displacements. In 2023 alone, more than 1.6 million people have been displaced due to violence in eastern DRC. This situation led to the closure of more than 2,000 schools, depriving more than 800,000 children of their right to education.
Faced with this reality, UNICEF and its partners had to take emergency measures, setting up more than 420 temporary learning spaces for displaced children in the North Kivu province. However, these measures remain insufficient to address the scale of the problem and guarantee quality education for all.
Beyond insecurity, other provinces in the country face similar challenges. Delays in paying teachers have led to strike action in some regions, putting the resumption of classes on hold. Teachers are demanding payment of several months’ salaries, highlighting the financial difficulties they face.
Despite these difficulties, the Congolese government says it is taking measures to ensure a peaceful school year. Free primary education is highlighted as an important step forward, but additional efforts are needed to guarantee access to education for all Congolese children, particularly those affected by insecurity and poverty.
It is necessary to increase public awareness of these issues and encourage collective mobilization to support education in the DRC. Education is indeed a fundamental right for all children, and access to it should not be compromised by external factors. The future of the Congolese nation rests on the quality of its education system, so it is essential to give it all the necessary attention and resources.