Overview
Université Pédagogique Nationale (UPN) is the Democratic Republic of Congo’s key institution for teacher education and pedagogical research. Founded in 1961 in Kinshasa, UPN has helped train generations of educators who support learning outcomes across the country. The university focuses on preparing secondary school teachers, educational administrators, and curriculum developers with teaching methods tailored to local classroom realities.
Today, UPN offers a mix of education-focused academic disciplines and practical pedagogical training through its faculties. With an estimated around 12,000 students, it remains an important option for students seeking a career in teaching, instructional design, and education management in the DRC. If you are comparing programs and campuses, you may also want to review other options such as the University of Kinshasa and the University of Lubumbashi.
2. General Information
| Name | Université Pédagogique Nationale (UPN) |
| Established | 1961 |
| Type | Public University |
| Location | Kinshasa, DR Congo |
| Website | www.upn.ac.cd |
3. Fee Structure
Tuition fees can vary by program and academic year. The ranges below are commonly reported for education-related degrees at UPN; for the most accurate figures, confirm directly with the admissions or secretariat office.
| Program | Tuition Fee (per year) |
| Undergraduate Teaching Degrees | $150–$300 |
| Subject-Specific Pedagogy Programs | $200–$400 |
| Educational Administration | $250–$450 |
| Graduate Programs in Education | $300–$500 |
4. Academic Programs
- Faculty of Educational Sciences
- Faculty of Languages and Literature
- Faculty of Mathematics and Physics
- Faculty of Chemistry and Biology
- Faculty of History and Geography
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Technology
- Higher Institute of Physical Education
If you are exploring additional institutions with similar education and teacher-training missions across the DRC, see also the guide for Université de Bunia, which can be useful for regional comparisons.
5. Facilities
- Model secondary school for teaching practice
- Specialized pedagogy resource center
- Science laboratories for teacher training
- Educational technology center
- University library with curriculum collections
- Conference hall for educational seminars
6. Accommodation
UPN offers limited on-campus housing primarily for out-of-town students. In practice, many teacher candidates arrange private accommodations in Kinshasa, with university guidance available when needed.
- Shared dormitory rooms (3–4 students)
- Study rooms with educational resources
- Basic kitchen facilities
- Security personnel on premises
- Access to campus teaching facilities
Because accommodation capacity is often limited, it can help to compare timelines with other universities in major cities, such as the University of Lubumbashi, especially if you are flexible about location.
7. Contact Information
- Email: secretariat@upn.ac.cd
- Phone: +243 81 511 1111
- Address: Avenue de la Démocratie, Kinshasa-Gombe, DR Congo
- Teacher Training Office: formation@upn.ac.cd
More Universities in Congo
- University of Kinshasa
- University of Lubumbashi
- Université de Goma
- Kongo University
- Université Officielle de Bukavu
- Université de Bunia
- Université de Lisala
- Université de Kalemie
- Université Catholique du Congo
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