RDC-ESU: Several Higher Education Institutions Banned from Operating Following a 'Presumed' Viability Check in Areas Controlled by AFC/M23

Eighty higher education institutions in areas controlled by AFC/M23 have been banned from operating for the 2026-2027 academic year, according to a circular from AFC/M23. Out of 113 universities affected, 8 are deemed viable, 25 moderately viable, and 80 non-viable. In North Kivu, 23 institutions are closed, with 14 private ones authorized; in South Kivu, 27 universities are closed, while 14, including 7 public and 7 private, are authorized to operate. The ban comes a month before the Congolese government suspends activities in about ten universities, impacting 48 staff members including 28 professors.