Technical validation of the national certification framework for in-service teacher training in the DRC

The ballroom of the Pullman Hotel in Kinshasa hosted a technical validation workshop for the National Certification Framework for the Continuing Education of Teachers in the first six years of basic education on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. This initiative also includes a system for the validation of prior learning (VAE). The workshop, organized under the auspices of the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship, with support from UNESCO, brought together several experts from the education sector. Among the participants, Mr. Jean Jeef Mwanza, Director and Head of the Communication Management Division at the Ministry, actively contributed to the discussions. The main objective of this workshop was to analyze and evaluate the proposed certification framework. Participants had the opportunity to examine its various components, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and assess its relevance and quality. Recommendations were also made for its improvement, to ensure that it meets the specific needs of teachers and educational institutions, while complying with international standards and best practices. The certification framework aims to structure the criteria, standards, and methods for measuring and improving the effectiveness of continuing education programs for teachers. Its primary objective is to guarantee high-quality training, thereby strengthening teachers’ pedagogical and professional competencies. This framework aims to contribute to the improvement of the Congolese education system. The implementation of this framework represents a crucial step in the professionalization of teacher training in the DRC, ensuring official recognition of teachers’ competencies and promoting their continuous professional development. Moïse Dianyishayi