**Fatshimetrie: The Challenges of Strikes in Higher and University Education in the DR Congo**
Since the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic year, major disruptions have marked the landscape of Higher and University Education (ESU) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Strikes and teachers’ demands have led to a climate of uncertainty and instability within higher education institutions. These social movements have highlighted the challenges facing the ESU sector in the country.
The Minister of ESU, Marie-Thérèse Sombo Ayanne Safi, recently presented an inventory of the commitments made during the Bibwa agreements, highlighting the progress made and the points remaining to be addressed. Among the main demands of the teachers are the increase in salaries, the mechanization of unpaid teachers, the correction of grades and compensation in vehicles for teachers.
RAPUICO, a network of university professors’ unions in the DR Congo, has announced a general strike to denounce the non-compliance with the Bibwa agreements. The teachers’ demands focus on improving salary conditions, a key issue to ensure the quality of teaching and the stability of the ESU sector.
The involvement of the government is crucial to find a lasting solution to these social tensions. It is essential to take into account the legitimate concerns of teachers and to guarantee decent working conditions and remuneration for these key education stakeholders.
Furthermore, it is necessary to promote social dialogue and consultation to resolve disputes and find viable and equitable solutions for all stakeholders. It is imperative to set up monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the proper implementation of the commitments made during the negotiations.
Ultimately, resolving conflicts in the ESU sector in the DR Congo requires an inclusive and participatory approach, where each actor is involved in the search for sustainable and equitable solutions. Education is an essential pillar of a country’s development, and it is essential to invest in the well-being and recognition of teachers to ensure quality education and train the citizens of tomorrow.