The Democratic Republic of Congo has dramatically reduced the time it takes to publish national secondary school exam results — from as much as three months to just three days — thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology.

Traditionally, students faced a wait of at least 30 days, with results sometimes delayed beyond three months. However, at a recent 54th Council of Ministers meeting, Education Minister Raïssa Malu Dinanga revealed that exam scripts were processed and published merely three days following the exams’ completion. The fast-tracked turnaround astonished the public and prompted Dinanga to brief both the president and cabinet on the pioneering technology behind it.

The Ministry of National Education attributed its success to sweeping digital reforms. It established modern scanning centers across several provinces, raising the scanning speed from 8–10 sheets per minute to 80–100. AI automation has slashed processing times by 30–40% and significantly reduced logistics costs, while improving the reliability and consistency of exam results.

Despite automation, every critical phase remains under strict human oversight. Educators continue to conduct rigorous double-checks to ensure both speed and integrity.

Looking ahead, the ministry has committed to further modernization, including plans to issue electronic diplomas — a reform expected to enhance security and preserve educational credentials.