Exchange of good wishes at EPST: Tony Mwaba advocates consolidating the achievements of Félix Tshisekedi's first term in office in the sub-sector

During the traditional New Year’s greeting ceremony held on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, in the Via Nova Hall in Gombe between the head of Primary, Secondary and Technical Education (EPST) and the broader educational community, Professor Tony Mwaba Kazadi emphasized in his speech the need to consolidate the achievements of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi’s first term in this subsector. The minister also thanked his colleagues who supported him in the various initiatives carried out under his leadership.

"The President has said that this five-year term is about consolidating the achievements of his first term. And if we are to take this to heart, the primary achievement of the Head of State’s first term in our sub-sector is free primary education. Therefore, we will continue to consolidate this reform," declared the head of the EPST. 

In addition to free education, Professor Tony Mwaba noted that the ministry continues to work on improving the quality of learning and is simultaneously exploring ways to involve partners in this effort.

Continuing his remarks, the head of the EPST recalled that upon taking office, he had committed his sub-sector to combating negative values and ensuring the sustainability of free primary education. He said he is pleased to see that the ministry has restored its long-tarnished image. He took the opportunity to thank his colleagues for their dedication. 

"I must thank you very sincerely because everyone who knows me knows that I am not a hypocrite. I always operate in the open and with my face uncovered. With your support, much has been accomplished. I also thank everyone who voted for me in the national legislative elections," said Professor Tony Mwaba. 

The minister further emphasized that while many initiatives have been carried out, much remains to be done. Referring to an author who said, “A dream is what allows hope to become expectation,” Professor Tony Mwaba remains convinced that everything his ministry’s staff and executives plan to accomplish will be achievable. 

"Each of us has our dreams, our plans, our projects. May God grant each of us everything we desire," he said. 

Finally, the head of the EPST extended his best wishes to all his colleagues in the cabinet and the ministry’s central administration, as well as to union members, teachers, students, and the various partners in his sub-sector, for a happy and blessed 2024!

Speaking on behalf of the broader educational community, EPST Secretary General Christine Nepa Nepa Kabala extended best wishes for the new year to Minister Tony Mwaba and Deputy Minister Aminata Namasia. She took the same opportunity to congratulate the two ministry officials on their brilliant re-election to the National Assembly.

Christian BELLA