The Rector of the Catholic University of Congo (UCC), Professor Abbé Léonard SANTEDI, received on Friday, November 28, 2025 at the Limete campus Mr. the Advisor for Religious Affairs of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, accompanied by Mr. Patrice Leroy, Political Advisor of the French Embassy in the DRC .
In front of the members of the UCC Steering Committee, the Head of Cooperation, Reverend Sister Odette Sangupamba, and in the presence of journalists, the Rector emphasized the importance of this strategic meeting. According to him, the exchange highlighted the major role of religion in state-building, peacebuilding, and the promotion of interreligious harmony within society.
The French advisor, for his part, emphasized the role of religion in international relations and national dynamics, even in a secular state. He reiterated that the university remains the ideal place to cultivate the critical and open-minded perspective necessary for understanding contemporary religious issues. He also illustrated this reality with the example of multiculturalism in France and the ongoing dialogue between the state, academic institutions, and religious organizations.
This visit also provided an opportunity to explore new avenues for academic and scientific cooperation, particularly with the five Catholic Institutes of France and other French universities. The Advisor indicated that he would forward the various proposals to the French Ambassador in Kinshasa in order to strengthen collaboration between the two institutions.
The Catholic University of Congo sees this meeting as a major opportunity to strengthen its international ties, expand its partnerships and mobilize new resources for the benefit of its academic and social mission.
Source: UCC Communications Unit
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