The Socialists and Democrats Group met with teachers and school officials from the Cimpunda district during their visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo between 7 and 11 April. The meeting was part of an S&D Group project to raise international awareness of the need to increase funding to support education in conflict zones.
Gianni Pittella, president of the S&D Group, said:
“Giving young people who live in conflict zones access to school is a major challenge for Europe and the international community.
“We want to offer future generations the possibility of an education to help build a more peaceful and responsible society.”
Addressing school officials from the Cimpunda district, Linda McAvan, chair of the European Parliament’s International Development Committee, said:
“Our presence in your school reflects the interest that the S&D Group has in teaching. It also demonstrates our firm commitment to supporting your efforts in educating children in particular.
“We support your education programme on Education for Peace that aims to prepare future generations to live together in peace.
“We are collaborating with NGOs at the European and global level, looking for ways to better contribute to the financing of similar educational projects. Without education, peace is not possible.”
