DRC Announces Publication of the Education and Training Strategy for Emergency Situations

On the occasion of International Education Day, celebrated on January 24 under the UNESCO theme “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education,” the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship officially announced the publication of the Education and Training Strategy for Emergency Situations (SEFSU) 2025-2029.

Validated on August 5, 2025, this strategic document aims to address the persistent challenges facing the Congolese education system in a context marked by armed conflicts, mass displacement of populations, and environmental crises, all of which undermine millions of children’s access to education across the country.

In light of this reality, the government reiterates that education remains a national priority, even in times of crisis.

Measures To Maintain Learning and Student Wellbeing

The SEFSU 2025-2029 strategy includes a series of measures designed to ensure the continuity of school activities in emergency contexts, strengthen the education system’s resilience to shocks, and guarantee protection and psychosocial support for the most vulnerable students.

The document also highlights the central role of youth, viewed “not only as beneficiaries but also as drivers of educational transformation in times of crisis.”

More Than $820 Million Required For Implementation

The total estimated cost of implementing this strategy over five years is $824,198,072 USD, an amount that the ministry says reflects the national authorities’ commitment to investing sustainably in the human capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

When the strategy was validated, the acting Secretary-General of the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship emphasized that education is the first line of defence for a nation in crisis. He stressed the importance of protecting students’ schooling paths and preserving the credibility of their diplomas in the face of security and humanitarian challenges.

Call For Global And Sector-Wide Support

Through this strategy, the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship is calling on the international community and all education stakeholders to mobilise.