On September 4, 2026, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, accompanied by Minister of State for Education Raïssa Malu Dinanga, conducted an inspection tour of three prominent schools in Kinshasa. The tour included visits to Collège Bonsomi, École Primaire Sona Pangu 1 and 2, and Lycée Monseigneur Shaumba. This visit allowed the President to assess the conditions of learning and engage with students, teachers, and school administrators.
During the tour, President Tshisekedi evaluated the resumption of classes and interacted with students and educators. At École Primaire Sona Pangu, he laid the foundation stone for a pilot school canteen, marking a significant milestone in the implementation of the National School Feeding Strategy (SNAS 2025-2030). The strategy aims to establish 78 pilot canteens nationwide to improve student attendance and nutrition.
The President also symbolically handed over a batch of locally manufactured desks to the schools. The desks were produced by workshops of the National Service. This initiative is part of the government's efforts to enhance the learning environment and provide essential infrastructure for students.
Throughout the tour, President Tshisekedi emphasized his commitment to creating a modern and inclusive education system. He encouraged students to strive for excellence and patriotism, highlighting the importance of education in the country's development. The President urged students to work hard to defend their country and become capable citizens.
President Tshisekedi shared his long-term vision for the education sector, focusing on producing Congolese citizens who can compete globally and address the country's challenges. He particularly encouraged final-year students to perform well in national exams to qualify for the prestigious Excellentia program of the Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi Foundation.
The President's visit demonstrated his administration's dedication to improving the education sector. By engaging directly with students, teachers, and administrators, President Tshisekedi gained firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities in the sector. His emphasis on excellence and patriotism resonated with the students and educators.
The government's efforts to enhance education in the DRC include initiatives to improve infrastructure, nutrition, and learning outcomes. The establishment of pilot canteens and distribution of locally manufactured desks are part of a broader strategy to create a conducive learning environment. President Tshisekedi's commitment to education reflects his administration's priorities for the country's development.
Key points
- President Tshisekedi lays foundation stone for pilot school canteen in Kinshasa
- President Tshisekedi emphasizes importance of excellence and patriotism in education
- Government aims to establish 78 pilot canteens nationwide to improve student attendance and nutrition
