Children’s laughter, parents’ applause and teachers’ pride set the tone for the end-of-year results ceremony at Goma Students Fund (GSF) Mugunga, a school established by HEAL Africa with the support of WorldShare. On July 2, the school’s 271 pupils officially brought the 2025-2026 academic year to a close in an atmosphere of celebration. Beyond the presentation of report cards, the event marked the handover of responsibility from the school to families for the two-month holiday. Teachers encouraged parents to remain vigilant and protect their children from risks such as loitering, street trading and road traffic accidents.

“We are not giving these children back to you; we are simply entrusting them to your care for the next two months. Please look after them well and bring them back to us safe and healthy in September,” said the school’s Head Teacher, Joseph LAFASI, in his address to parents. He also encouraged them to accompany their children with patience and understanding throughout the holiday period, while reminding them that the school remains available to provide support whenever needed.

Results that reflect a shared commitment

The GSF Mugunga school year achievements are the outcome of the combined efforts of pupils, teachers and parents, despite the difficult context facing communities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Overall, 92% of the pupils progressed to the next grade, while all 29 finalists recorded a 100% pass rate in the national primary school leaving examination.

For the Parents’ Committee, the school holiday should also be an opportunity for learning. Its Vice-President, Espérance Nyamukeba, encouraged families to enroll their children in vocational training, tutoring programs and technology-related learning activities to help them acquire practical skills and make productive use of their time.

For more than a decade, GSF Mugunga School has been providing quality education to children living in the western neighborhoods of Goma, many of whom have been affected by recurring disasters. Throughout the school year, HEAL Africa also strengthened teachers’ pedagogical capacities and supported parents in their educational role, helping to maintain a stable and nurturing learning environment. Speaking on behalf of many parents, Mrs. Alice expressed the hope that this initiative will continue to grow by expanding to secondary education, enabling children to complete their schooling within their own community.

“We appeal to HEAL Africa and its partners to extend this initiative by establishing a secondary school here at GSF,” she said.