English training and TOEFL preparation in Bukavu
The Language School of the Catholic University of Bukavu (UCB) offers NGOs, institutions, and individuals three-month, level-based English training, as well as preparation for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
A school for learners, NGOs and institutions
The programme develops speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills and helps learners prepare for the TOEFL.
The school offers two types of training: module-based English training and TOEFL preparation.
Four skills, practised in every course
Each lesson is organised around a topic for discussion, allowing learners to practise grammar and other language features.
Four levels, from A2 to B2
The module-based programme follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and is offered at four levels. Language skills are developed through interactive exercises, multimedia activities, and audio and video recordings.
Level 1
CEFR A2Designed for beginners and learners who wish to review basic English grammar and vocabulary. Learners practise understanding frequently used sentences and expressions in everyday situations and communicating simply about daily activities, personal and professional circumstances, their environment, and business. The course ends with a general test to assess progress.
Level 2
CEFR A2–B1For learners who have acquired beginner-level skills or wish to review their knowledge. Learners practise simple conversations about work and school and develop their ability to understand radio and television programmes on familiar topics, as well as films featuring African actors or speakers who speak slowly. The course ends with a general test of acquired knowledge.
Level 3
CEFR B1For learners who meet the entry requirements for this level, and as a useful review for more advanced learners. Learners practise simple conversations about work, school, and leisure, and learn to express their experiences, events, and ambitions orally and in writing.
Level 4
CEFR B2For learners wishing to improve their English. Learners develop the ability to understand the main ideas of complex texts on concrete or abstract topics, including technical or specialised vocabulary; communicate with sufficient spontaneity and fluency for normal conversation with a native speaker; and write clear, detailed texts, support opinions with arguments, and discuss advantages and disadvantages.
TOEFL preparation
This programme is intended for learners who have successfully completed the module-based training and wish to pursue studies at an English-speaking university. It helps them prepare for the TOEFL and address potential language barriers.
Accredited by the United States Embassy, the school is authorised to organise TOEFL tests.
An approach designed for adults
The Language School provides training supported by information technology equipment, CDs, and multimedia devices. The teaching approach is designed for adults and supports practice in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
- Courses run from Monday to Friday.
- Each level runs for three months, with classes three times a week from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Private lessons are available at learners' homes or offices, subject to availability.
- ESP trainings can be tailored to learners' fields and needs.
Fees for each training option
| Training option | Fee |
|---|---|
| Module-based training (per module) | $120 |
| TOEFL preparation (including teaching materials) | $150 |
| Private module-based training (per level) | $150 |
| Private TOEFL preparation | $180 |
Translation and interpretation services are available.
| Interpretation, per day | $100 |
| Translation, per page | $15 |
Registration, conditions and calendar
- A $10 registration fee is required.
- Learners must take a placement test, except those who have already taken courses at UCB.
- Registration and tuition fees must be paid in advance.
- A certificate is awarded upon completion of the training.
- Module-based training: three sessions per year.
- TOEFL preparation: two sessions per year.
Professionalisation of Teacher Educators in English and Mathematics
UCB-Language School, in collaboration with partner universities, is running an international project titled ProTEEM.
General objective
To enhance the quality of English and Mathematics teacher education by strengthening the professional competencies of teacher educators, promoting innovative and inclusive pedagogical practices, and developing research capacity through international collaboration and doctoral training.
Specific objectives
Professional development
Strengthen the professional knowledge, pedagogical skills, and teaching competencies of teacher educators in English and Mathematics.
Doctoral training
Support the academic and research development of four PhD students across four participating universities, contributing to sustainable research capacity in English and Mathematics education.
Teaching innovation
Promote learner-centred, inclusive, gender-responsive, and practice-oriented teaching methodologies.
Curriculum development
Improve teacher education curricula, instructional resources, and assessment practices in English and Mathematics.
Research capacity building
Encourage collaborative research, academic writing, publication, and dissemination of research findings.
International collaboration
Strengthen partnerships between African and European universities through knowledge exchange, joint research, mentoring, and professional development.
Educational equity
Contribute to gender equality, poverty reduction, and improved access to quality learning opportunities through better teacher preparation.
Digital learning
Promote the effective use of educational technologies and blended-learning approaches in teacher education.
Partner institutions
The ProTEEM consortium comprises the following nine institutions:
| Region | Partner institution |
|---|---|
| Belgium | Universiteit Antwerpen (UA) |
| Lithuania | Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) |
| South Africa | Stellenbosch University (SU) |
| South Africa | Rhodes University (RU) |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | Université de Kinshasa (UNIKIN) |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | Université de Lubumbashi (UNILU) |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | Université Catholique de Bukavu (UCB) |
| Zambia | University of Zambia (UNZA) |
| Zambia | Kwame Nkrumah University (KNU) |
Expected outcomes
By the end of the project, the expected outcomes include:
- Four PhD students supported in their doctoral training across four universities.
- Improved professional competencies among teacher educators in English and Mathematics.
- Enhanced teacher education curricula and classroom practices.
- Increased research capacity, collaboration, and academic publications.
- Stronger and more sustainable partnerships among the nine participating institutions.
- Greater use of innovative, inclusive, and technology-supported teaching approaches.