Over 110 teachers from all over the Eastern DRC joined together for a workshop on increasing efficacy of English language teaching practices in the classroom. The event was organized by English Language Fellow Steve Pachan in collaboration with the Congolese Language Supporters’ Society (CLASS). Teachers from Uvira, Goma, and surrounding cities participated in trainings given by Fellows, Fulbright scholars, and 6 Congolese professors of English Education.
The conference consisted of 12 presentations covering topics such as classroom management, correcting learners, implementing speaking activities, and leadership in the classroom. Due to the ongoing conflict in the DRC, collaboration is a challenge for most teachers. Many teachers expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with one another in professional development. David Biloko, CLASS President of South Kivu, thanked participants for “sharing classroom experiences and being fully devoted to the promotion of the English language in the DRC.”