State Exam: controversy over illegal payment for E13 points

A significant controversy is unfolding in the educational sector of Kasaï-Central, Democratic Republic of Congo, as parents of final-year secondary students denounce the alleged illegal payment of E13 points. These points are essential for students' performance in the state examination, and parents claim that several schools are demanding exorbitant fees for them.

Testimonies from parents indicate that school principals are requesting sums ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 Congolese francs (FC) for the issuance of these E13 points. Parents argue that these results should be based solely on students' merit and academic work, deeming the financial demands abusive. Emile Kabunjiki, a parent, expressed his dismay, stating, "Students must work at school to earn points. My child must take the State Exam, but I am asked for 30,000 FC for him to be given the E13 points. Education is not taking its place. Tomorrow, what kind of person will we have?" He fears this practice will corrupt the educational system and discourage diligent students.

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Students must work at school to earn points. My child must take the State Exam, but I am asked for 30,000 FC for him to be given the E13 points. Education is not taking its place. Tomorrow, what kind of person will we have?

Provincial education authorities have strongly condemned these alleged practices. Interim Provincial Chief Inspector, Paulin Mbuyi, described the acts as "shameful" and urged parents, civil society, and educational partners to report any such incidents. "Anyone who is denounced will be ejected from their position as head of the establishment," Mbuyi declared, aiming to deter implicated school officials and restore transparency.

Oscar Loleke, president of the Teachers' Union of Congo (SYECO) in Kasaï-Central, has also called on school principals to uphold professional ethics and deontology. He stressed that the credibility of the educational system hinges on strict adherence to rules, particularly concerning academic evaluations. The authorities' firm stance aims to ensure that student assessments are fair and merit-based, safeguarding the integrity of the educational process.

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It is a shameful practice. I invite parents, civil society, and all educational partners to denounce these kinds of practices. Anyone who is denounced will be ejected from their position as head of the establishment.