Fatshimetrie, October 7, 2024. The Machozi ya Raiya citizen movement recently organized a peaceful march in Uvira, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, to demand an improvement in the living and working conditions of teachers. During this event, the national coordinator of the movement, Dunia Amisi, stressed the importance of recognizing the crucial role of teachers in society and providing them with adequate support.
The demands of the Machozi ya Raiya movement are clear: a significant increase in teachers’ salaries to guarantee a decent standard of living, the improvement of school infrastructure to provide an adequate learning environment, the establishment of a social security system including medical coverage, paid leave and a dignified retirement for all teachers, as well as the valorization of the teaching profession.
Uvira students also joined the movement by stressing the importance of saving the school year, highlighting the harmful consequences that a prolonged absence of teachers would have on the education of young people. They called on the government to pay particular attention to this urgent issue in order to allow students to return to school.
The memorandum submitted to the Deputy Mayor of Uvira, Kifara Kapenda Kik’y, reflects a clear desire to fight for better recognition and decent working conditions for teachers. It is now up to the competent authorities to take the necessary measures to respond to the legitimate demands expressed during this peaceful march.
In conclusion, the mobilization of the Machozi ya Raiya movement and the support of the Uvira students highlight the crucial importance of valuing and supporting teachers to guarantee a better future for Congolese youth. It is imperative that the authorities take concrete measures to meet the legitimate needs of these essential actors in the education system and to ensure the sustainability of education in the Democratic Republic of Congo.