16 days of activism against GBV: the Government reiterates its commitment to an inclusive and safe school environment

The Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship of the Democratic Republic of the Congo reaffirms its commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive school environment where every student—both girls and boys—feels safe and protected. This renewed commitment was expressed by the Ministry’s Secretary General, Matthieu Mukenge, during the screening of a film on protection against sexual exploitation and abuse in schools on Friday, November 29, 2024, in Kinshasa, organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). This film, screened as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, was produced under the Education System Equity and Strengthening Project (PERSE). Matthieu Mukenge, who praised the UNFPA’s initiative, noted that it aligns with the commitments of the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship through its 2024–2029 five-year plan, which is based on that of the Congolese government. This plan, he assured, is a strategic response to the structural challenges of the education subsector, aimed at transforming education to support the DRC’s sustainable development by focusing on several priority areas. These include, among others, improving access to quality BDE education; modernizing school infrastructure; promoting equity and inclusion; and strengthening teachers’ professional skills.

“The vision of the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship is to provide girls and boys with access to quality education while also addressing issues of inclusion and safety within our sub-sector,” stated Matthieu Mukenge.  “The Ministry is faithfully fulfilling its mission to create a school environment where students are protected, as well as its commitment to combating gender-based violence, sexual abuse and exploitation, and sexual harassment,” added the Secretary General.

Mady Biaye, UNFPA representative in the DRC, urged all stakeholders involved in this issue to consider concrete actions to combat all forms of violence against children in educational settings. Ivan Honoré Mudiangombé