Prof Yolande Berbers, vice-president of SEFI, coaches Reform of Engineering Education in Congo

Prof Yolande Berbers, vice-president of SEFI, coaches Reform of Engineering Education in Congo

Prof Yolande Berbers, vice-president of SEFI, was asked to join a key initiative of the World Bank (Washington D.C.) to initiate an in-depth reform of the educational system in Congo. She is heading a team to coach a major curriculum redesign effort of the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Kinshasa (UNIKIN).

The team intensively works together with the local professors, alumni of the faculty, and members of professional organizations of Engineers. Based on interviews and surveys with local stakeholders, Yolande Berber’s team identified which types of engineers are currently needed in Congo. This analysis resulted in a list of competences and skills that should become part of the education of future engineers in Congo.

These findings are currently being translated in a new curriculum, which incorporates elements of existing courses complemented by new courses to be developed. The new curriculum will pay special attention to project work and internships.