Pioneering Women Celebrated with Splendor at UNIKIN

At the heart of this ceremony were exceptional women—true pioneers in their respective fields. Among them was Professor Félicitée LANGWANA, recognized as the first woman to hold the position of Academic Secretary General at the University of Kinshasa, a symbol of assertive female leadership at the summit of university administration. Beside her was Professor Bijou MANDIANGU, the first woman elected Vice-Dean in charge of teaching at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, illustrating the breakthrough of women into faculty decision-making spheres.

Through these distinctions, UNIKIN highlighted inspiring career paths: the first female doctoral graduates, administrative heads, department chiefs, and other female figures who successfully established themselves in leadership roles that had long remained largely inaccessible to women.

In his address, the Rector, Professor Jean-Marie KAYEMBE NTUMBA, expressed his emotion regarding this initiative, which was led by the university's women themselves. He views it as a strong signal, revealing a vision and a determination to promote female excellence as a driver of progress and institutional influence.

The Academic Secretary General, Professor Félicitée LANGWANA, emphasized the collective impact of this commitment, reminding the audience that building a strong university relies on the complementarity between women and men. She also shared a message for the women in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo, calling for peace and an end to the violence.

Meanwhile, Cécile OTSHIKIONA, President of the trade union delegation, praised the initiative and called for it to become a permanent fixture. She expressed her hope for future editions to continue valuing the committed women within UNIKIN and inspiring future generations.