### The challenge of certification tests in South Kivu: between insecurity and educational commitment
The recent distribution of items notebooks for the certification tests, in particular the State Examination and the National End of Primary Studies (ENAFEP), marks a significant step in the educational landscape of South Kivu. In these times of uncertainty marked by the persistent insecurity and the strikes of teachers, this initiative could be perceived as a boost to education, but it also raises many questions regarding the ability of the authorities to guarantee the conditions necessary for a peaceful course of exams.
#### Fragile security context
The South Kivu, and more particularly the cities of Bukavu and Goma, face a difficult reality, where the occupation by the rebels of the AFC/m23 has undermined the daily life of the populations. While the provincial inspection has confirmed the reception of items books, it is essential to ask: what security measures are put in place to ensure the safety of candidates? Testimonials from students and parents report growing concern in the face of the fights taking place in certain regions, notably in Rutshuru and in Bwito chiefdom.
Security instability has direct repercussions on the morale of students, who see their preparation for disturbed exams. This deserves to be examined in the light of the psychological and academic implications on these young people who aspire to a better future thanks to education.
### The teachers’ strike: a call to emergency
At the same time, the teachers’ strike, triggered by the non-payment of wages due, adds a layer of complexity to this already delicate equation. Teachers have a crucial role in the preparation of students, and their absence in classrooms can only affect the quality of the instruction. In some regions such as Mwenga, where the classes remain closed, the question arises: how to guarantee just and equitable education in a context where teachers are struggling for their rights?
This strike, although it may appear as an obstacle, could also be the occasion for a deeper dialogue on teachers’ working conditions and investment in education. Could educational authorities consider more sustainable solutions to overcome these problems?
### mobilization of international partners
It is encouraging to note that the transport of items notebooks has been supported by organizations such as UNICEF and World Vision. This support highlights the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis. However, this also raises questions about the dependence of local education systems to these entities and the sustainability of such initiatives.
How can Congolese authorities strengthen their own capacity to manage these crisis situations without constantly depending on external assistance? This questioning is essential for the lasting development of the education sector in South Kivu.
#### A debate on the future of education
The holding of the exams scheduled from June 2 to 9 also raises the question of the adequacy between the school calendar and reality on the ground. The pressure to maintain this calendar, despite the opposing conditions, deserves special attention. What sacrifices does this lead to students, and what solutions can be envisaged to ensure that all candidates have equal chances to succeed?
The current context offers an opportunity to reflect on the future of education in the region. How can the educational community, including teachers, parents and students, collaborate to develop innovative solutions to these challenges? An inclusive approach on the part of governments and NGOs could lead to relevant initiatives, based on local realities and the expectations of citizens.
#### Conclusion
It therefore appears that the holding of certificating tests in South Kivu is placed under the sign of uncertainty. The concerns about the security, the well-being of teachers, and accessibility to quality education highlight the need for a collaborative and thoughtful approach. It is crucial that all the actors involved in the educational sphere, including the government, teachers, parents and students, engage in a constructive dialogue to approach these concerns. By kissing solutions adapted to the realities on the ground, it is possible to trace a path to a more stable and equitable educational future for all children in South Kivu.