Recovery from the worst and bloodiest war in recorded African history will not be easy for the Democratic Republic of Congo. It will be virtually impossible if the younger generation remains uneducated. But that is exactly the struggle the Congolese people face unless their shattered education system is restored.

Education is every child’s right. It can also be a matter of life and death. The children of uneducated mothers are more likely to die in infancy than those whose mothers can read. An uneducated population is less able to participate in the democratic process and has fewer opportunities to have a say in decision making about their community’s development. Employment possibilities are dramatically reduced and a life of poverty and disease more likely.

The conflict in Congo claimed 70% of the country’s schools – looted, torn down or destroyed as the fighting spread across the country. Now, with a fragile peace in place, children are going back to school, even when ‘school’ is little more than three crumbling walls, with no shelter from the torrential downpours, and a handful of books to share. The desire for education among the children is palpable and inspiring. But for too many, the school experience is a battle against the odds, and often against the elements.

War Child’s program of school rehabilitation is giving Congo’s children the opportunity of a more normal childhood. To date, War Child Canada has rebuilt 15 schools, giving 6,000 children access to a decent education. The program goes far beyond bricks and mortar, offering a holistic approach to schooling. Many teachers were among the millions killed in the conflict. Those that survived have been out of the classroom for years. War Child Canada has trained or re-trained 400 teachers from over 30 schools in child-centred learning. All the schools we have worked with have been re-equipped, meaning teachers and pupils no longer have to share books, pencils, chalk and other essentials.

The program has revitalised communities, and given the children a renewed sense of hope for the future. Like children across the world, Congolese children have big dreams - to become teachers, doctors or engineers and to help rebuild their country. Now that they are receiving an education, these dreams have become attainable. Some of these children will be Congo’s future leaders. After years of conflict, there is finally the prospect that Congo may moving towards a future of peace.

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