Official launch of the ordinary session of the State Examination 2025: Raïssa Malu calls on finalists to excel and be good citizens

The Minister of State, Minister of National Education and New Citizenship, Ms. Raïssa Malu, officially launched the exams for the 2025 regular session of the State Examination this Monday at Don Bosco Middle School in Masina Petro Congo, in the city of Kinshasa. This year, 1,079,341 candidates from the long cycle, 43% of whom are girls, as well as 6,022 candidates from the short cycle, 17% of whom are girls, are taking part in these national exams. The exams are being held in 3,165 centers spread across the entire country, as well as 13 centers outside the country’s borders. A Call for Civic Responsibility In her address to the final-year students, Minister Raïssa Malu praised their perseverance and urged them to demonstrate responsibility, integrity, and civic-mindedness: “Dear final-year students, you embody the hope of a new Congo—one that stands tall, is competent, and shows solidarity. Your commitment up to this point is in itself a victory. The State Exam is not merely an assessment; it is a civic act, a test of truth, and an exercise in citizenship. Be worthy of these values that will accompany you throughout your lives,” she declared. Tribute to the Head of State for his commitment to equity The minister took this opportunity to commend the educational vision of the President of the Republic, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, particularly regarding the coverage of participation fees for final-year students from conflict zones in the eastern part of the country:

“I pay tribute to His Excellency the President of the Republic for his commitment to a republican, inclusive, and high-quality school system. Thanks to his political will, participation fees have been covered for candidates from provinces affected by conflict. This gesture reflects a deep commitment to social justice and equal opportunity,” the minister emphasized.

Statistical Data and Engagement of Provincial Authorities For his part, the Provincial Minister of Education of Kinshasa, Mr. Jeannot Canon, reiterated the importance of education as a driver of development:

“There can be no sustainable development without investment in education. Education is the key that unlocks the door to the future.”

According to data provided by the minister, the Kinshasa educational province has 321 testing centers, hosting 173,215 candidates, including 80,052 girls and 84,163 boys. The Tshangu Provincial Education Directorate (PROVED) also spoke to encourage students to approach this exam session with courage, honesty, and discipline, while urging them to stay focused throughout the four days of exams. Fadi Ndanga