** “Mabadiliko” festival: a glimmer of hope for Congolese youth **
Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), recently hosted a significant event: the school festival-scientist “Mabadiliko”, whose name means “change” in the local language. This festival, in progress since the beginning of May, highlights the artistic and scientific talents of young students in the region and aims to promote a positive image of Congolese youth.
### A space of expression and creativity
The festival, the 6th day of which was held in a gymnasium of the national police, testifies to the growing interest in the development of young people through arts and culture. According to Johnson Ishara, director of the event, the main objective is to change the often negative perceptions that surround Congolese youth. Through interschilder competitions, the students presented various performances ranging from poetry to slam, including eloquence competitions, fashion shows and dance shows.
This initiative is of great importance, because it offers young people a space not only to express their creativity, but also to strengthen their interpersonal skills and their self -confidence. By promoting students’ commitment to collective activities, these events can help create a feeling of belonging and encourage values such as collaboration and equality.
### A youth in search of recognition
However, it is essential to wonder what this festival really represents for Congolese youth. The speeches for the promotion of creativity and the intelligence of young people are encouraging, but they also raise questions about the underlying challenges that this youth still has to overcome. Difficulties such as lack of access to quality education, poor cultural infrastructure and limited employment prospects can prevent the full development of talents revealed during such events.
The “Mabadiliko” festival can then be perceived as a response to an urgent need to promote initiatives that support young people, but it must also be accompanied by broader institutional support. How can the government, NGOs and private actors associate to build an environment favorable to creativity and innovation beyond this punctual event?
### The need for sustainable support
The educational dimension of this festival is underlined by the wish to “stimulate students to develop the spirit of creativity and the sense of responsibility”. But for this spirit to result in concrete shares, an investment in the education system is essential. This includes teacher training, the development of innovative educational programs and improving school infrastructure.
In addition, the valuation of the experience acquired during such festivals must continue to collect tangible results. For Congolese youth to be perceived differently, cultural initiatives must be part of a long -term dynamic, where art and science are integrated into the educational journey of children from an early age.
### Conclusion
The “Mabadiliko” festival is a great initiative which, beyond competitions and performance, raises crucial issues for the future of youth in the DRC. By strengthening the visibility of young talents, this event acts as a springboard, but it must not remain isolated. Efforts must be made to ensure constant and lasting support for these young dreamers and creators.
So what does this festival really represent for the future of Congolese youth? In order for lasting changes to take place, it is imperative to go beyond appearances and to engage collectively to build a future where each young person can really express their potential without constraint.