As communities recover from the Kamuina Nsapu conflict in Kaboya village, one school, Diondo primary school, stands at the forefront of the challenges in rebuilding a functional and inclusive education system. With 400 students, including 210 girls, the school struggles with inadequate facilities such as classrooms, desks, textbooks, and sanitation infrastructure. EDU’KAS project has identified EP Diondo as a priority for support.
Odia Ndunga: a teacher at Diondo primary school
Odia Ndunga, a primary school teacher at Diondo school, embodies the resilience and optimism of her community. For the past four years, she has taught fourth-grade students, many of whom face significant disruptions in their education due to displacement and conflict. Since joining the EDU'KAS project in June 2024, Odia has been actively involved in training programs designed to address these challenges head-on.
The future of a community begins with education. Education cultivates intellect, critical thinking, and hope for the future."
Odia Ndunga, Teacher at Diondo primary school

One of the key components of the EDU'KAS project is the "Formation sur le Cours Accéléré," a five-day training program that equips teachers like Odia with the skills to address educational gaps for students who have dropped out or experienced prolonged absences. Many of Odia’s students had been out of school for one to three years, leaving them behind academically. The training provided her with strategies to help these students catch up and reintegrate into the school system.
"The concept of free education was an eye-opener, it removes barriers for students who can't afford uniforms or school supplies, allowing us to focus on recovery programs that cater to their unique needs."
Odia Ndunga, Teacher at Diondo primary school
Through this training, Odia learned how to implement targeted interventions, develop tailored teaching objectives, and create a sense of belonging for returning students. By helping these students catch up with their peers, Odia is contributing not just to their academic success, but also to reducing dropout rates and fostering long-term educational retention.
Mubanga Lukengu: a student supported by the EDU'KAS project
Mubanga Lukengu, an 11-year-old student in fourth grade, is one of the many participants of the EDUKAS project. Living in Bakwampika village, Mubanga attends Bakuamupudi primary school and dreams of becoming an engineer. His education was interrupted by the conflict and financial difficulties, but thanks to the EDU'KAS project, he was able to return to school.
I used to worry that my family wouldn’t be able to afford my school supplies, but now I can focus on my studies. One day, I hope to build schools for other children in my village.
Mubanga Lukengu, Student
Mubanga’s story is a reminder of how crucial external support is in enabling young people to pursue their dreams, even amid adversity. His ambition reflects the deeper impact of education on both personal and community development.
The EDU'KAS project: transforming education
The EDUKAS project, funded by the European Union and implemented by AVSI, aims to improve educational access and quality for over 16,400 children across Demba and Dibaya districts. The project has three primary goals:
- Access to Education: EDUKAS seeks to create safe, inclusive, and continuous education for vulnerable, displaced, and returnee children. By providing classrooms, sanitation facilities, and learning materials, the project is addressing the urgent infrastructural needs of schools like EP Diondo. It also strengthens identification and referral systems to ensure no child is left behind.
- Improving Teaching Quality: Through comprehensive training and capacity building for teachers, school directors, and education stakeholders, EDUKAS is enhancing teaching practices. This training includes strategies for crisis-affected areas, where teachers like Odia are learning how to help students reintegrate into the school system effectively.
- Vocational Training and Economic Integration: For adolescents, the EDUKAS project offers vocational training and support for income-generating activities, aiming to help 440 young people achieve social and economic integration. By linking them to networks and resources, EDUKAS fosters long-term sustainability and resilience within the community.
The project is implemented in collaboration with organizations like the Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO), Action et Intervention pour le Développement Social (AIDES), and the E4Impact Foundation, alongside the Ministry of Primary, Secondary, and Technical Education.
Quality education for all
As the world celebrates World Teachers’ Day on October 4, 2024, it is important to recognize the vital role that teachers like Odia play in building a better future. World Teachers' Day, established by UNESCO, highlights the importance of teachers in achieving SDG4 (Sustainable Development Goal 4) – ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all
The EDU'KAS project is an example of how collaboration between communities, governments, and international organizations can bring about meaningful change in education. Teachers like Odia and students like Mubanga are proof that with the right support, education can flourish even in the most challenging contexts.