Academic activities suspended in AFC-M23-controlled areas

The Congolese government has halted the 2026-27 academic year at 11 public higher-education institutions in Goma and Bukavu, cities controlled by the AFC-M23. The suspension covers registrations, teaching, examinations and academic deliberations, and remains in force until further notice.

An order dated August 20 from the Ministry of Higher Education, University Education, Scientific Research and Innovation attributes the decision to the security situation. It also cites the need to protect students and staff, preserve the regularity of academic programs and safeguard the value of diplomas issued in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The measure follows initiatives by the AFC-M23 inside the affected institutions. Among them was the appointment of academic staff at some universities on August 7. The government’s decision therefore places university activity on hold in areas where the armed group has begun taking steps within higher-education institutions.

A limited exemption applies to final-year students from the 2025-26 academic year who have not yet completed their studies. The suspension has also prompted debate over the future of university students in Goma and Bukavu and the consequences of interrupting academic programs in conflict-affected areas. Radio Okapi presented the issue for discussion with Nadège Ngombe Kabamba, a professor at the University of Kinshasa and deputy chief of staff to the higher-education minister; Joseph Dunia Ruyenzi, a lawyer and former head of the North Kivu Bar Association; and Jolino Malukisa, a professor and governance director at the Ebuteli research institute.