Félix Tshisekedi urges government to ensure a peaceful 2026-2027 school year

President Félix Tshisekedi has directed the government to take all necessary measures to guarantee a peaceful, effective, and inclusive start to the 2026-2027 school year across the Democratic Republic of Congo. This directive was issued during a cabinet meeting on Friday, August 14.

"As the 2026-2027 school year approaches, the president has called on the government to mobilize sustained efforts to ensure every Congolese child effectively exercises their right to education," stated government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya, relaying the council's report. Tshisekedi stressed the importance of maintaining social peace through ongoing dialogue with teachers and honoring government commitments, particularly concerning the expansion of free education.

The primary objective is to ensure classes resume promptly and regularly from the first day. The president also highlighted that preparations must address socio-educational, financial, health, security, and mobility challenges. Particular focus will be placed on children in the North and South Kivu provinces, who have been displaced and affected by ongoing conflict and occupation.

Prime Minister Judith Suminwa has been tasked with coordinating a special government mechanism to prepare for and support the 2026-2027 school year, with the assistance of educational partners. This initiative aims to ensure access to education, especially for displaced children.

This call from Tshisekedi comes at a time when teachers in several educational provinces are threatening to boycott the upcoming school year due to unpaid salaries, highlighting the complex challenges facing the education sector.

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As the 2026-2027 school year approaches, the president has called on the government to mobilize sustained efforts to ensure every Congolese child effectively exercises their right to education.