University of Kolwezi Launches Geological and Geochemical Mapping Training under FEF Project
University of Kolwezi Hosts Landmark Geological Mapping Training to Boost DRC’s Geoscientific Capacity
The University of Kolwezi (UNIKOL) officially launched the Geological and Geochemical Mapping Training on Monday, September 29, 2025, under the FEF Project — a strategic initiative aimed at developing the National Geoscientific Data Bank for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This programme is the result of a collaborative partnership between the Bureau of Geological and Mining Research (BRGM), the French National Geological Survey, and the National Geological Survey of Congo (SNG-C).
Strategic Scientific Cooperation
Funded by the French Embassy, the project seeks to equip the DRC with a modern system for managing and sharing geoscientific data — a vital tool for sustainable planning and the responsible development of natural resources.
Yannick Callec, BRGM mission leader, stated:
“Training must be seen as a sustainable transfer of knowledge. It strengthens national expertise and enhances geological mapping and exploration.”
Science as a Driver of Development
In his opening remarks, Professor Sage Ngoy, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences at UNIKOL, emphasized the project’s intellectual and societal importance:
“Shared knowledge is transformative. Every piece of data collected contributes to understanding our world and shaping our future.”
He encouraged participants to approach the training as an “initiatory journey”, guided by both rigor and passion.
Empowering the Next Generation of Congolese Scientists
Éric Mantuila, Technical Director of SNG-C, highlighted the inclusive and forward-looking goals of the programme:
“The partnerships we are building today aim to prepare the next generation of scientists and equip young researchers to contribute to the sustainable development of our country.”
The training brings together SNG-C professionals and UNIKOL students and will run for fifteen days, from September 29 to October 10, 2025. It will blend theoretical instruction, practical software training, and fieldwork. The formal distribution of training materials marked the official start of activities.
A Milestone in Knowledge Transfer and Scientific Innovation
This training programme — born from the strategic partnership between France and the DRC through their geological services — represents a major step in technology transfer, capacity building, and scientific innovation.
It reinforces the shared commitment to sustainable resource development and strengthens the scientific foundation for the future of the DRC’s geological sector.
