Educational Media Reviews Online

Dieudo Hamadi’s documentary National Diploma follows a group of dedicated Congolese students as they prepare to take their country’s national exam to obtain a high school diploma, which opens up the possibility of attending university.

Hamadi relies on using cinema vérité without any additional narration. For many films this works, but here it does not. It is difficult to follow and understand the sequence of events, the protagonists and their actions without additional context or background information. Money exchanges hands between parents and students and students and teachers. Is the educational system corrupt? What are the expected norms on obtaining an education?

Christian students are sharply contrasted with students who practice a traditional African religion. Each uses the prayers of their faith to aid in obtaining the coveted credential. Each group’s successes and failures are clearly made known at the end of the film. However, it is unclear if there’s an underlying motive for presenting this information.

Without needed clarity the film leaves us uninformed about specifics. It does, however, succeed in showing how difficult it is to obtain an education in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Education clearly seems to be a privilege, not a right. The students we meet go to lengths not typically experienced here in the United States. Their dedication and perseverance in pursuit of their goal is admirable.

This film is recommended with reservations, as to truly understand the film, one needs to have a substantial background knowledge of the Congolese educational system. Instructors opting to use National Diploma should preview it and provide context beforehand. The film would be appropriate supplemental material for courses in African studies and education. It also could act as a springboard for conversations about social justice, educational opportunity, and equity.