Vice Chancellor meets with Congolese students following conflict in DRC

The VC shows solidarity with Congolese Students amidst ongoing conflict in DRC

[Monday, February 10, 2025] The Vice Chancellor Prof. Laban P. Ayiro has called on the University community to support foreign students who are facing challenges back in their home countries. 

The Vice Chancellor spoke when he met with about 20 students from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to listen to their predicaments following the ongoing conflict in DRC.

During the meeting, it was reported that some of the students had lost their relatives in the conflict while others were unable to establish the whereabouts of their displaced families.

The Vice Chancellor, who was accompanied by members of the Management Board and representatives of the Dean of Students Office, promised to support the affected students from DRC and Sudan.

Through the efforts of DRC country representative Mr. Luzozo Mashang Mahis and the former President of ISADU (International Students Association of Daystar University) Mr. Meshake Mabira Methos, the needs arising among DRC students have been analysed and determined.

The DRC conflict has affected money transfer, leaving most students stuck.  Presently, 19 students need financial support for fees payment, six students need support with daily meals, four students need therapy, while three students need support with equation of their academic credentials with the Kenya National Qualification Authority (KNQA), to validate their admission to Daystar University.

According to local media reports, hundreds of thousands of Congolese have been displaced in recent weeks as a result of the advance by the M23 group which has so far seized major cities in the mineral-rich east and north regions - including Goma, Bukavu, Huri, Bani, and Butambo among others.

During the meeting, the University Chaplain Rev. Miano Weche offered prayers and encouragement to the students.

Since then, the University Counsellors have been holding counselling sessions with the affected students, led by the Associate Dean of Students at the Main Campus, Ms. Susan Botto.