### Kikwit: Celebration of a new generation of gorouts and land development issues
Kikwit, an emblematic city of Kwilu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was recently the scene of an important graduation ceremony for eight winners of the National School of Cadastre and real estate titles (ENAC-TI). This meeting, on the occasion of the National Day of Surveyors, not only celebrates individual successes, but also underlines the crucial role that the profession of surveyor can play in the economic and social development of the country.
## training and its challenges
The ENAC-TI, founded in 1963, opened its doors in 2012 in a context where the formalization of land rights is essential for stability and economic growth. The creation of a sector dedicated to surveyors in 2022 responds to an increasing necessity. Indeed, the role of surveyors is not only technical; It is deeply rooted in the country’s socio-economic reality. By delimiting land properties and certifying the titles, the surveyors participate in the formalization of the land sector, which is often characterized by inequalities and a lack of transparency.
However, such initiatives do not go without challenges. The winners, including two women, are at the crossroads. While they are armed with qualifications, the application of these skills on the ground asks questions. What will be their access to the job market? Is the recognition of their diplomas and their skills in the field sufficient to guarantee fair opportunities?
### A call for action
Augustin Makesa, Enac-Ti coordinator, underlined the need for graduates to defend their titles “on the ground”. This echoes a broader need in society: law and practice must converge to create an environment where surveyors can exercise and their contributions are recognized. It is also relevant to wonder whether the institutions such as ENAC-Ti offer continuous support for these new professionals, particularly in terms of mentorship and career development.
The speech of Mr. Stéphane Ngweli, representative of the Ministry of Land Affairs, recalled the importance of the legal function of the surveyor. However, how can we ensure that this function is fully respected in a context where land conflicts are frequent? The profession is essential to guarantee social peace, but it depends on the alignment of legal and practical concerns in the field.
### The importance of diversity and inclusion
Positive light is also thrown on the presence of women between the winners. Their valuation in a traditionally male sector could open the way to a necessary transformation of gender dynamics in the field. How to guarantee that this inclusion is reflected in improvements in land practices and resource management? Education must serve as a springboard, but it is crucial to ensure that these women are offered the same opportunities and supports as their male counterparts.
### Conclusion: Towards a future of cooperation and commitment
The ceremony in Kikwit is much more than a simple academic event; It reflects the crucial issues of the cadastre and land management in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a country where land challenges are often sources of tensions, the work of surveyors is of paramount importance to build solid bases for the future.
The ENAC-Ti winners, with their training, find themselves at the forefront of a necessary change. So that this new generation of surveyors can really contribute to the positive transformation of the land landscape, a collective commitment to the authorities, educational institutions and civil society is essential. By promoting open dialogues, by supporting access to employment and strengthening recognition standards, Kikwit could become a model for other cities in the DRC. It is a call for action to build bridges between theory and practice, between generations and sexes, in order to fully enhance the potential of these professionals at the service of sustainable development.