In a significant development for the education sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a crucial event took place in Kinshasa from April 17 to 19, 2024. The Permanent Secretariat for Support and Coordination of the education sector (SPACE) and UNESCO collaborated to organize a workshop aimed at drafting the 2024-2026 tri-annual work plan for the Education and Training Sector Strategy (SSEF). This workshop gathered key stakeholders in the education sector to outline future directions and priorities.
Enhancing the quality of education stands as a paramount concern for the DRC, actively committed to the transformation of its education system. In this workshop, participants introduced a methodology for formulating the work plan, established working groups, and identified sectoral priorities for inclusion in the planning process. Emphasizing the integration of the gender perspective into the educational strategy was among the primary objectives, highlighting a dedication to gender equality in education.
As a designated partner for enhancing capacities within the DRC’s education system, UNESCO stressed the importance of reinvigorating the teaching workforce to ensure a resilient and effective education system. This ambitious endeavor encompasses three central aspects: gender-responsive planning, coordination of the information system and education management, and sectoral dialogue coordination. At the core of this initiative lies the SSEF, serving as a fundamental pillar for the advancement and continual enhancement of the Congolese education realm.
Through its active participation in the global education partnership, with financial backing from GPE, the DRC showcases its commitment to modernizing and revitalizing its education landscape. The “Teacher and quality teaching” project represents a key component of this reform agenda, necessitating strategic and collaborative planning to attain the defined objectives. Planning, acknowledged as a crucial driver for transforming the education system, stands as a fundamental factor in ensuring the success of this innovative partnership.
Nearly fifty participants at the workshop had the opportunity to contribute their expertise and insights to kick-start this visionary project actively. With the collaboration of over 35 technical experts engaged in the groundwork, this event laid the groundwork for a fruitful and cohesive partnership among stakeholders in the Congolese education sector.
In essence, the workshop held in Kinshasa in April 2024 to formulate the SSEF tri-annual work plan signifies a pivotal stride towards educational excellence in the DRC. By uniting efforts and expertise, education stakeholders have reaffirmed their collective commitment to forging a brighter future for Congolese youth through quality and inclusive education.