DRC: Government determined to complete implementation of a high-performance education system

The Government Action Program 2024–2028 (PAG 2024–2028), presented by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, to the National Assembly, is firmly committed to building an effective, inclusive, and equitable education system. Outlining her government’s program, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka expressed her and her government team’s commitment to transforming the Congolese education system to ensure that every girl and boy receives the quality education they need. “In the specific sector of education, your government’s commitment is focused on continuing and completing the establishment of an effective, inclusive, and equitable education system. This strategic priority… aims to build an education system that effectively contributes to national development, citizenship, and the promotion of a strong work ethic,” she stated. She added: “Free primary education will be complemented by efforts to improve students’ learning conditions and teachers’ working conditions.” This is to foster responsible and engaged citizens capable of contributing positively to the nation’s development. Underlying this, the 2024–2028 National Action Plan (NAP) lists several actions to be carried out during this five-year term to improve the quality of education. These include: 1. The construction and renovation of classrooms for pre-primary, primary, and secondary education, 2. The construction of specialized schools for children with disabilities to promote equal opportunities for all Congolese children, 3. The reformulation of school curricula, notably by integrating entrepreneurship training, citizenship education, and patriotism to foster the internalization of republican values, as well as modules on sustainable development and water management, 4. The publication of national and provincial yearbooks and school maps, 5. Streamlining administrative offices and mapping sites for the construction of classrooms, 6. Continuing the retirement program for teachers, trainers, and social educators to rejuvenate the education sector. Estimated at 8.3 trillion Congolese francs per year and 41.6 trillion Congolese francs over five years—representing 15 percent of the total cost of the 2024–2028 PAG—the component on access to education and healthcare is included in the fourth pillar of the 2024–2028 PAG. The improvement in the quality of education advocated by the President of the Republic, which has been implemented since his accession to the highest office, guarantees access to education for all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background. Charon Mukendi and Willy Kambulu