### The preliminary test in conflicting territory: a message of resilience in the heart of North Kivu
While the school calendar promises to be charged for the year 2025, it is with a palpable determination that self-taught candidates from the North Kivu 1, Sud-Kivu 1 and 3 educational provinces are preparing to face a crucial test in the midst of special circumstances. Scheduled for March 25, 2025, this preliminary test of the state examination, will take place in a region marked by the instability and occupation of the elements of the M23/AFC. Despite this difficult context, the main provincial education inspector, Sosthene Mpanga, said that all the preparations are in place, males containing the exam items having already been transported to Goma, the capital of North Kivu.
The invitation launched by Mpanga to all candidates, especially those of the volcanic city of Goma, is much more than a simple call for an examination. It represents a symbol of hope and perseverance in a land hardened by conflicts. The mention of “rehearsal of self -taught candidates” underlines the importance given to preparation, while testifying to resilience in the face of a hostile environment. Each student is thus encouraged to show discipline, focus on their studies and keep hope, despite conditions that could discourage the most reckless.
### A fragile educational context
The education system in North Kivu does not work in a vacuum. MP Ayobangira Safari talks about the need for a “humanitarian corridor” to allow young finalists residing in occupation areas to pass the test under acceptable conditions. Indeed, this gesture presents itself as recognition of fundamental right to education, even in war situations. This phenomenon is not unique to the DRC; Conflictos-educationals are realities experienced by several nations in crisis around the world. A UNESCO report of 2020 revealed that nearly 75 million children in 35 countries, including nations such as Syria and Afghanistan, do not have access to education due to armed conflicts.
### Results in the heart of resilience
The pressure to succeed is immense, but the will of these students not to see their efforts reduced to nothing is an engine of change. Moreover, in an educational environment traditionally separated by socio-economic barriers, the phenomenon of autodidacts makes it possible to redefine the concept of success. These students, by their perseverance, show how education can transcend external difficulties.
In addition, state examinations do not only include academic evaluations, but also represent a measure of social solidarity. The success of these students could positively influence the perception of education in fragile contexts, illustrating that, even in adversity, young people are hoping for a better future.
### Comparative analysis: Education and conflict
If we take an example from other countries in conflict, the correlation between education and stability is striking. In Afghanistan, for example, recent efforts have focused on the supply of educational resources for young people in refugee camps. A recent study has shown that in these environments, education programs are increasing communities resilience while reducing the risk of radicalization. In comparison, the DRC must navigate its own challenges while cultivating this resilience.
International interventions, well cited by the Safari deputy, such as those proposed by UNICEF and UNESCO, can play a key role in the implementation of adapted educational programs which not only promote academic training, but also social inclusion.
### A promising future vision
In conclusion, while March 25, 2025 approaches, it is obvious that the simple organization of a state examination in such a complex context returns a powerful message. He underlines that education is an inalienable right even under occupation, and that the joint efforts of governments and non -governmental organizations can create an environment conducive to learning in troubled areas. The young people of North Kivu deserve to be heard and supported, because at the heart of this struggle for education is a generation which aspires to transform trauma into opportunities.
Beyond the examination itself, it is crucial that long-term solutions are envisaged to ensure that the voice of each child, whatever their geographic location, is valued. Because the future of a nation is built today, and it is through education that it will be achieved.