The Chadian Ministry of Higher Education has announced that the National Student Congress will take place in Bongor, the capital of Mayo-Kebbi Est, from November 26-28, 2026. This meeting aims to put student participation at the heart of university governance. The congress is themed "Ethics, Academic Integrity, Student Participation, and Employability" and will address several concerns related to university life.
The congress program includes promoting leadership and academic excellence, strengthening integrity in university practices, and regulating the use of digital tools and artificial intelligence. The meeting will also focus on dialogue, conflict prevention, improving study conditions, and professional insertion. These initiatives are part of the government's efforts to enhance the quality of education and student life in Chad.
The National Student Congress will bring together student organizations, public establishment leaders, and students to discuss the challenges facing the education sector. The meeting is expected to lead to the adoption of a charter of commitment and a roadmap outlining the responsibilities of different actors and follow-up deadlines. This will help to ensure that student concerns are addressed and that their participation in university governance is meaningful.
The organization of this congress is a response to the current context marked by tensions around student representation. In October 2025, the authorities suspended the activities of the National Executive Bureau and the crisis committee of the Chadian National Students' Union (UNET), citing public order disturbances and the expiration of its leaders' mandate. The government then asked the Ministry of Higher Education to create the conditions necessary for the organization of a UNET congress.
To prepare for the Bongor meeting, student organizations are required to renew their sections by November 13 and transmit their minutes, bureau composition, and leaders' contact information by November 20. This will ensure that all stakeholders are represented and that the congress is well-prepared. The Ministry of Higher Education is working to create an enabling environment for the congress to take place.
The Chadian government is committed to improving the quality of education and promoting student participation in university governance. The National Student Congress is a key initiative in this regard, and its outcomes are expected to have a positive impact on the education sector. The government has invited all stakeholders to participate in the congress and contribute to the development of a more inclusive and effective education system.
The success of the National Student Congress will depend on the active participation of all stakeholders, including student organizations, public establishment leaders, and government officials. The meeting will provide a platform for students to express their concerns and contribute to the development of solutions to the challenges facing the education sector. The government has expressed its commitment to implementing the recommendations of the congress.
Key points
- The National Student Congress will focus on promoting student participation in university governance and addressing concerns related to university life.
- The congress will adopt a charter of commitment and a roadmap outlining the responsibilities of different actors and follow-up deadlines.
- The meeting is a response to the current context marked by tensions around student representation in Chad.
