Kinshasa, October 23rd, 2025(CPA).- The importance of a holistic and interdisciplinary approach was highlighted by the Rector of the National Pedagogical University (UPN) at the close of the international symposium on the implementation of the Paris Agreement in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), on Wednesday. « The rich and fascinating debates that brought together lawyers, economists, environmentalists, fundamentalists and sociologists proved the need for the holistic and interdisciplinary approach that we so desperately want. Only this union of minds will enable us to resolve the complex issues of financing and adaptation to climate change, » has said Yvonne Ibebeke, full professor and rector of the National Pedagogical University.
She has reminded participants that the Congo Basin is not only a national treasure, but a global treasure whose survival is essential to the planet’s balance. Ten years after the Paris Agreement, Ms Ibebeke pointed out that through these scientific days, participants have simply translated international commitments into resilience strategies and sustainable development opportunities for sub-Saharan Africa. The National Pedagogical University is committed to continuing to place research and education at the centre of the fight for a resilient future. ‘We reaffirm our deep conviction that education and research are the most powerful tools at our disposal,’ has concluded Professor Ibebeke.
Sub-Saharan Africa, a source of innovative solutions
For his part, Mr Masiala Muanda, Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Kinshasa (Unikin), noted that sub-Saharan Africa is not only vulnerable to climate change, but can also be a source of innovative solutions by drawing on its realities, knowledge and natural resources. He has argued that during these days of reflection, participants had assessed the considerable challenges posed by the adaptation of our countries to the demands of climate transition, but also the tremendous opportunities they hold for sustainable, inclusive and resilient development.
‘The discussions highlighted the need for concerted action based on science, regional cooperation and the commitment of public and private actors,’ he has said at the end of the proceedings, noting that the recommendations made will inform public policy, inspire research and strengthen joint commitments for the progressive and equitable implementation of the Paris Agreement on our continent. Finally, the dean of the Unikin Faculty of Law expressed the hope that the work begun in Kinshasa would continue in universities, institutions and communities. The theme of the Kinshasa symposium was ‘A decade of action and challenges for the preservation of the Congo Basin forests.’