International Education Day: the Government publishes the National Strategy for Education in Emergencies

On the occasion of International Education Day, celebrated this year under UNESCO’s global theme: “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education,” the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship announces the official publication of the Strategy for Education and Training in Emergency Situations (SEFSU) 2025–2029. Approved on August 5, 2025, this policy document marks a decisive turning point for the resilience of our education system.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo faces major humanitarian challenges, where armed conflicts, population displacement, and environmental crises threaten the future of millions of children. In the face of these trials, the Government reaffirms an absolute position of principle: education must be protected. It constitutes a national priority that cannot be sacrificed, for schools must remain a space of protection, peace, and continuity, even in the heart of the areas most affected by the ravages of war.

This new strategy is the result of rigorous, multisectoral work carried out with technical and financial partners to provide a coherent and sustainable response. It is based on clear commitments aimed at ensuring the continuity of learning under all circumstances, strengthening the system’s capacity to absorb shocks, and guaranteeing protection and psychosocial support for the most vulnerable learners. In line with UNESCO’s theme, this strategy recognizes youth not only as beneficiaries, but as the very driving force behind educational transformation in times of crisis.

The ambition of this plan, with estimated funding of $824,198,072 over five years, reflects the commitment of the Head of State, H.E. Félix-Antoine TSHISEKEDI TSHILOMBO, to building a more just society. As the Acting Secretary-General of EDU-NC emphasized during the document’s approval, education is the first line of defense for a nation in crisis. Protecting students’ educational pathways and the credibility of their diplomas in the face of uncertainty is a sovereign duty that affects the very future of our country.

On this World Day, the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship calls on the international community and all educational stakeholders to take action. Investing in this strategy means choosing to protect the Congolese human capital and ensuring that the light of learning never goes out, no matter what difficulties are encountered.

Kinshasa, January 24, 2026

Communications Unit