Fatshimetrie: Teachers’ strike in the DRC and resumption of classes after payment of the free education bonus
The teachers’ strike in some regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has sparked a wave of concern about the impact on the current school year. However, following the payment of a free education bonus, teachers were called to resume classes, thus putting an end to this strike movement which had disrupted the start of the school year.
The intervention of the Vice-Minister of National Education and Initiation to Citizenship, Jean-Pierre Kezamudru, helped to dispel misunderstandings and remind teachers of the importance of their educational mission. Indeed, the long-awaited free education bonus was paid, and a salary increase was also granted, thus meeting the teachers’ main demands.
The call for the resumption of classes was motivated by the desire not to compromise the smooth running of the school year. Despite the days lost due to the strike, the Deputy Minister assured that measures would be taken to allow students to catch up and respect the established school calendar.
The Deputy Minister’s trip to the province of Tshopo, then to that of Haut-Uélé, demonstrates the government’s desire to ensure the effective resumption of classes and to take into account the educational realities specific to each region. Participation in local events, such as the centenary mass of the parish of Niangara, also helps to strengthen ties with educational communities.
Ultimately, the resolution of this conflict demonstrates the importance of dialogue and consultation to ensure the proper functioning of the education system. Teachers, essential actors in the transmission of knowledge, thus have the opportunity to continue their mission with serenity and to guarantee an environment conducive to student learning.
The resumption of classes after the teachers’ strike in the DRC marks a new beginning for education in the country, highlighting the need to invest in the education sector and to value the essential role of teachers in society.