Provision of Educational Resources for Schoolchildren in DR Congo

This Report focuses on the social action activities of Africa Mission United Kingdom, Region 1 (AMUK1) Chapter for 2024 Year end. In line with Africa Missions Global project initiatives the chapter is working together with the partners in Democratic Republic of Congo to assist in identifying specific needs and improving the lives of children and young adults through the provision of academic resources

Project Title: Provision of Academic Resources for School Children in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The cost of the project that has been completed in Democratic republic of Congo is estimated at $4,631, and it in being funded from donations received from donors within the chapter. The primary aim of the project, sponsored by Africa Mission United Kingdom Region 1 Chapter, is to enhance educational opportunities and learning outcomes for young students in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by providing essential academic resources. The initiative targets primary and pre-school children, aiming to bridge the gap in educational resource availability and support the overall educational infrastructure in the country.

Estimated Number of lives (pupils) to be Impacted by the Project

The project targets a total of 200 pupils distributed across 10 schools in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The beneficiaries are categorized as follows:

- 20 pupils in 5 higher division primary schools

- 20 pupils in 4 lower division primary schools

- 20 pupils in 1 pre-school

BREAKDOWN OF ITEMS PER CHILD

1. HIGHER DIVISION PRIMARY SCHOOL (Per Child)

1.1. 1 packet of 6 Books (Big Format) = $7.5

1.2. 1 Packet of 6 Books (Small Format) = $7.5 3.

1.3. Pens (Red Blue Black) = $0.3

1.4. Maths Book = $1.0

1.5. Drawing Book = $1.0

1.6. Math Set = $2.5

Total = $20.80

2. LOWER DIVISION PRIMARY SCHOOL (Per Child)

2.1. 1/2 Packet of 6 books (Small Format) = $3.75

2.2. 2 Pencils = $0.32

2.3. 1 Packet of 12 markers = $4.0

2.4. 1 Packet of 12 Crayons = $4.5

2.5. 1 Ruler = $0.3

Total = $ 13.87

3. PRE- SCHOOL (Per Child) 

3.1. 2 Big Books = $2.5

3.2. 2 Small Books = $1.2

3.3. Drawing Book = $1.0

3.4. 1 Packet of 12 Markers = $4.0

3.5. 1 Packet of 12 Crayons = $4.5

Total = $ 13.20

Detailed list of Beneficiary Schools:

1.     College Les Rachetes: Avenue Salo, Numero 2385, Quartier ONL, Communu de Kasavubu, Kinshsa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

2.     Ecole Bokasi: Avenue Madimba, Numero 25, Quartier Mikasa, Commune de Makala Kinshsa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

3.     College Saint Leon: Avenue Ngamika, Quartier CPA Mushi, Commune de la N’sele, Kinshasa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

4.     Mbudi Complexe Scolaire La Consolation: Avenue Paluku, Quartier CPA Mushi, Commune de Mont-Ngafula, Kinshasa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

5.      Complexe Scolaire Le Junior: Avenue Buta, Commune de Lingwala, Kinshasa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

6.     Complexe Scolaire Maman Dele:  Avenue Ethiopie, Commune de Kasavubu, Kinshasa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

7.     Complexe Scolaire Kuku: Avenue Kingabwa, Quartier Elengese, Commune de Ngiri-Ngiri, Kinshasa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

8.     Complexe Scolaire Lwemba: Avenue Kokolo, Quartier Lupiya, Commune de Bumbu, Kinshasa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

9.     Complexe Scolaire AKTO: 3eme Rue, Quartier Kimbangu, Commune de Kalamu, Kinshasa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

10. Complexe Scolaire Jean-Paul 2: Quartier Kikimi, Commune de la N’sele, Kinshasa, Rep. Dem du Congo.

4.     Budget and Expenditure

The budget for this project is carefully allocated to ensure the maximum impact on the targeted beneficiaries. The detailed budget estimates are as follows:

1. Higher Division Primary Schools:

  - 20 Pupils in 5 Schools = $2,080

2. Lower Division Primary Schools:

  - 20 Pupils in 4 Schools = $1,387

3. Pre-Schools:

  - 20 Pupils in 1 School = $264

4. Additional Costs:

  - Branded Carry Bags = $200

  - Estimated Running Expenses = $700

Total Estimated Budget = $4,631

5.  Expected Challenges During the Implementation of the Project

Expected Challenges During the Implementation of the Project may include, but not limited to the following:

a. Limited Financial Resources: It is expected that the allocated academic material for each selected schools will not be adequate since there are more than 20 pupils in each school. So, the inevitable plight of many children who may not benefit from the initial distribution would be unimaginable.

b. Logistical Issues: As previously experienced in previous deliverables, it is expected that there would be difficulties in transporting materials to remote areas where the schools are located.

c. Political Instability: There may be potential disruptions due to the ongoing political unrest in the country.

d. Economic Fluctuations: Variations in the exchange rate and inflation impacting budget are inevitable.

e. Regulatory Hurdles: Navigating the regulatory environment and ensuring compliance with local laws.

f. Infrastructure Limitations: Poor infrastructure across the country will definitely make access to the schools very challenging.

5.     Testimonials from Beneficiaries

a. On completing the distribution of the academic resources, it is anticipated that the new books and materials would definitely make learning so much easier and more fun for children. We are certain that pupils from the higher division primary schools would look forward to going to school every day, going forward.

b. With the new resources, we strongly believe that teachers from the various schools would be able to teach more effectively and engage students in ways they could not before. More available educational resources in classrooms would make a tremendous difference for teachers from the lower division primary school.

c. We are hopeful that it will be heartwarming for parents to see their children in pre-schools get excited about learning and having access to the materials they need. This project would truly be a blessing to many families and the community at large.

6.     Country Regulatory and Economic Update as it May Affect the Implementation of the Project

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces several regulatory and economic challenges that could impact the implementation of this project:

a. Regulatory Environment: The DRC has complex regulatory frameworks, especially concerning the importation of goods and educational materials. Ensuring compliance will be crucial to avoid legal complications.

b. Economic Conditions: The DRC's economy is characterized by high inflation rates and currency fluctuations, which could affect the purchasing power and overall budget of the project.

c. Political Stability: The political climate in the DRC is often volatile, with potential for unrest which could disrupt project activities. Continuous monitoring of the political situation is necessary to adapt plans accordingly.

d. Infrastructure: Poor infrastructure in many parts of the DRC can hinder the distribution of resources. Strategic planning and local partnerships are essential to navigate these challenges effectively.

By addressing these factors proactively, the project aims to successfully enhance educational resources for 200 pupils across the Democratic Republic of Congo, contributing to their academic growth and overall development.

7.     Future Plans and Projection

Below are some strategic recommendations for the future provision of academic resources starting Oct 2024 – Sep 2025).

1. Provision of Additional Learning Materials:

   1.1. Textbooks and Supplies: Ensure a steady supply of textbooks, notebooks, pens, and other essential learning materials to children and school libraries.

   1.2. Digital Resources: Introduce digital learning resources such as e-books and online educational platforms. Provide devices and internet access where feasible.

2. Infrastructure Development:

   2.1. Build and Renovate Schools: Invest in constructing new schools and renovating existing ones to provide safe and conducive learning environments.

   2.2. Provision of Basic Amenities: Ensure schools are equipped with basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation facilities, and electricity.

 3. Support for Vulnerable Children: Implement programs to support the education of orphans, children with disabilities, and those affected by conflict.

4. Health and Nutrition Programs:

   4.1. School Feeding Programs: Introduce or expand school feeding programs to improve nutrition and learning outcomes.

   4.2. Health Services: Provide basic health services and health education in schools to ensure students are healthy and able to learn.