"My name is Emmanuel Madilamba Yamba-Yamba and I am a Deputy Inspector-General within the EPSP (Congolese Ministry for Primary, Secondary and Vocational Education). Since 2008 the partnership with VVOB is clearly defined within the departments of the EPSP. It focuses on results in terms of inspection and training in primary and agricultural education, and the management of curricula and teaching materials.
The staff involved in the different objectives consulted different partners. This way they determined the priorities of the programme. The partner is key, both in planning and in developing various modules and the implementation of activities.
The visible impact of the actions already started with the research and identification of the situation in the central and provincial agencies when formulating possible solutions. Nevertheless, the first year of the programme was difficult. But as more and more harmonious planning was taking place, the partnership has proved very effective, both in terms of co-management as in its implementation.
The VVOB presence within the EPSP, and the inspection services in particular, led to a rational management of the education system of agriculture and primary education. This happened partly thanks to the modernisation of the system, through, for example, the introduction of APC.
This partnership demonstrates how a post-conflict country can rise out of underdevelopment through the modernisation of agriculture and how it can fight against illiteracy by raising the level of basic education. It makes local partners responsible for their own destiny within a collegial structure. Agricultural education manages to get back on its feet thanks to the support of VVOB. It is an example to us all."
