SERNAFOR Preschool: Michel Otto, commitment to early childhood

Appointed Deputy Inspector General and Head of the National Training Service for Preschool Education Staff (SERNAFOR Preschool), Michel Otto is a leading figure in the education sector of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His career path, from the ground up to this senior position, reflects a steadfast commitment to preschool education. A career built in the field A young inspector from the 7th recruitment class, Michel Otto patiently climbed the ranks thanks to his in-depth knowledge of the field. He began his career as a traveling inspector in the Kintambo and then Gombe districts. His successive promotions—from Deputy Principal Inspector (IPA) to Principal Inspector (IP), then Head of the Training Actions Section at SERNAFOR Preschool—recognize his technical expertise and his mastery of the realities of early childhood. Testimonial on his tenacity Joséphine Mabala, Deputy General Inspector and former supervisor, describes him as a leader with a keen sense of justice and fairness, as well as a critical mind and initiative that drive him to propose solutions. She emphasizes that his work has brought a “breath of fresh air” to the sector. His influence extended to the revitalization of the World Organization for Early Childhood Education (OMEP-DRC), of which he became president. Mercedes Mayol, Global President of OMEP, hailed this appointment as recognition of his competence and unwavering commitment to early childhood education. Other professionals in the sector highlight the impact of his work: James Iyolo, Division Chief at the ministry, affirms that Michel Otto is a man who “leaves a lasting impression” and describes him as the “pioneer of early childhood in the digital age.” Similarly, Serge Mwambay Kalamba, Secretary General of ASSONEPA, emphasizes his role as a “driving force for preschool education” and describes him as a “man of action.” For her part, Bibiane Mbambura Zigire, a school principal, sees him as “the voice of the voiceless, a unifier” characterized by a “strong sense of justice,” while educator Aimée Wana attests to the effectiveness of his training methods, which she describes as “playful and inspiring.” Recognized Skills and Expertise Michel Otto’s rise is built on a solid academic foundation and a continuous commitment to professional development. Initially trained in educational humanities with a specialization in early childhood education, Michel Otto completed his studies with a Graduate Diploma in Management Information Systems, a Bachelor’s degree in Cultural Animation and Development (INA), a Specialized Bachelor’s degree in Pedagogy and Didactics of Disciplines (UPN), and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Management at UCC. This diversity of qualifications reflects a commitment to understanding early childhood education from pedagogical, cultural, and managerial perspectives. An Educational Author His experience has resulted in several publications that help structure teaching, including “Practical Life: Areas of Application for Preschool Activities,” the “Practical Guide to Welcoming Children in Preschool,” as well as two co-authored works: “Free Activities and Play Corners in Preschool” and “Why Textbooks in National Languages in the DRC?” International Expertise His expertise has led him to be sought after as an Expert Consultant for international projects, notably supporting Burkina Faso, the Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, and the DRC in initiatives funded by USAID and the World Bank. This role underscores his status as a credible advocate for the early childhood sector beyond national borders. Michel Otto’s appointment as head of SERNAFOR Preschool is viewed by the sector as recognition of a career spanning more than 20 years dedicated to early childhood, grounded in professional ethics and determination. Magalie MOUSSA