In a message addressed to all UCLouvain staff, Rector Françoise Smets called for solidarity with women entrepreneurs in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo.

For several decades, the South Kivu region has been marked by recurring armed conflicts. In recent months, the situation has deteriorated further, with particularly serious consequences for women and children, who are victims of violence, abuse and forced displacement. ‘During my visit to Bukavu, I was able to see the extent of the population's distress,’ recalled the rector. ‘Despite the dangers, Louvain Coopération has chosen to remain, faithful to its values of partnership and solidarity.’

Together for them: a project that brings hope

Faced with this reality, UCLouvain has decided to support the ‘Together for them’ project, led by Louvain Coopération and its partner, GEL Sud-Kivu, as part of the 1+1 university campaign. This initiative aims to strengthen female entrepreneurship in Bukavu by offering women training, personalised support and a “Safe Space” — a place of support, training and resourcing, including psychological services, childcare and essential equipment. This project makes a concrete contribution to the economic empowerment of women and the reduction of gender inequalities, issues that are central to UCLouvain's social responsibility.

A concrete and collective commitment

Through this campaign, the university invites every member of its community to take part in this solidarity effort. The principle is simple: for every euro donated, UCLouvain will donate a second. This means that every donation has twice the impact, amplifying the scope of the aid provided to women and children in South Kivu. ‘These women show remarkable resilience and exemplary determination. By supporting them, we are helping to build a fairer and more sustainable future,’ emphasises the Rector.

Solidarity that makes sense

In this year marking the 600th anniversary of UCLouvain, this campaign highlights the university's deeply human and committed vocation. It also demonstrates the strength of the bond that unites the Belgian university community and its Congolese partners through research, cooperation and solidarity.

Find out more about this project