**Fatshimetrie: Defending the Right to Education of Students in Central Kasai**
The current situation in the city of Kananga, in the heart of Central Kasai in the Democratic Republic of Congo, raises serious concerns regarding access to education for all. Indeed, the expulsion of secondary school finalists for non-payment of school record inspection fees is a major obstacle to the education of young people in the region. The non-governmental organization Ligue de la Zone Afrique pour la Défense des Droits des Enfants et Elèves (LIZADEEL) recently denounced these unacceptable practices that penalize students and compromise their future.
The provincial coordinator of LIZADEEL, Jean Malhis Lungala, firmly expressed his condemnation of these abusive expulsions that deprive students of the opportunity to continue their education in optimal conditions. Indeed, by forcing students to leave school for financial reasons, school authorities are violating the fundamental right to education guaranteed by the Congolese Constitution and international conventions on the rights of the child.
The consequences of these unfair disciplinary practices should not be overlooked. In addition to disrupting the educational path of secondary school finalists, these untimely dismissals expose them to the risk of dropping out of school, marginalization and social exclusion. Deprived of their access to education, these young people are unfairly excluded from a fundamental opportunity to flourish, to train and to contribute to the development of their community and their country.
The parents of students themselves have expressed their concern about this worrying situation. Aware of the financial difficulties they are facing, they are calling for dialogue and understanding on the part of the school authorities. Indeed, in a city like Kananga, where administrative activity is predominant and where many households depend on the salaries of state officials, it is necessary to find concerted and inclusive solutions to guarantee access to education for all, without discrimination or exclusion.
It is crucial that local and provincial authorities take immediate measures to guarantee the uninterrupted schooling of secondary school finalists. Beyond the issue of the cost of checking school records, it is essential to set up financial support and solidarity mechanisms to enable all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, to continue their studies in optimal conditions.
Ultimately, the situation of students in Kasaï Central reminds us of the urgent need to defend the right to education for all, without distinction or exclusion. Education is a key pillar of a nation’s development and prosperity, and it is our collective duty to ensure that every child has the opportunity to benefit from a quality, accessible and inclusive education. Together, let us mobilize to ensure a better future for the youth of Kasaï Central and to affirm our commitment to the fundamental rights of every child.