Title: The State Exam in North Kivu: controversial participation fees
Introduction :
The State Examination, which marks the end of the secondary cycle in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a crucial moment for students and their families. However, in North Kivu province, Bapere civil society has strongly criticized the amount of participation fees set for the 2024 edition. In this article, we will examine in detail this controversy and the implications for parents who are already struggling faced with the difficult socio-economic conditions of the region.
The difficult socio-economic context:
North Kivu is a province that faces many challenges, particularly in terms of security and precarious socio-economic conditions. The regions of Masisi, Rutshuru and Beni have been particularly affected by unrest and violence, which has a direct impact on the lives of residents. Parents are already struggling to provide for their families, including sending their children to school. It is in this context that the provincial authorities set the participation fees for the State Examination, a decision which aroused the indignation of civil society.
Exorbitant participation fees:
The sum of 130,000 Congolese francs (50 USD) set for participation in the State Examination in 2024 was considered exorbitant by civil society in Bapere. Compared to the previous edition, the fees have been increased by 36,000 Congolese francs (13 USD). This increase has been strongly criticized because it does not take into account the precarious socio-economic conditions of the province. Parents find it difficult to raise this colossal sum and thus find themselves faced with additional difficulties in sending their children to school.
The call to reduce costs:
Faced with this situation, civil society in Bapere called on the governor of the North Kivu province to reduce the costs of participation in the State Examination. She emphasizes that the difficult socio-economic and security conditions do not allow parents to easily raise this amount. It is essential to put in place appropriate measures to allow all students to participate in this crucial exam without their families being financially burdened.
Conclusion :
The controversy over participation fees for the State Exam in North Kivu highlights the difficult reality in which many families in the region live. The authorities must take into account the precarious socio-economic and security conditions to set reasonable participation fees, thus guaranteeing equitable access to this exam. It is time to support parents in their fight to send their children to school and provide them with future opportunities.