On August 14, OmniPeace Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Education launched a Teacher Training Symposium led by Dr Richard Carrick, Chair of Composition at Berklee School of Music, Boston University.

The symposium aimed to provide training for music teachers from different teacher training centres (TTCs) and primary schools across Rwanda.

Running until August 18, the event also served as the official launch of Rwanda's Music Education Platform, which is designed to ensure that every child receives a robust and vibrant music education as an essential part of their primary education.

According to Mary Fanaro, Founder of OmniPeace Foundation, the idea stemmed from the progression of the Rwanda Rock Music School, which started with 12 students in 2016 and grew to 100 students as interest in music education increased among parents in Rwanda.

"The parents observed positive changes in their children's dedication, passion, and discipline due to music classes, which also improved their overall education,” she said.

Recognising the need for broader impact, Fanaro shifted focus from expanding the music school to partnering with the Ministry of Education. The objective became training teachers to incorporate music education in primary schools across the country.

Fanaro is aware of a shortage of instruments and resources in schools. She said the training workshop seeks to address challenges by equipping primary and high school teachers with the necessary skills and curriculum, focusing on keyboard and guitar instruction.

"The goal is to have a music teacher in every primary school in the country with enough instruments and resources to teach enough children and provide an effective music education programme,” she added.

As part of the agreement with the Ministry of Education, OmniPeace Foundation has a goal of placing music teachers in as many primary schools as possible, with a focus on significantly impacting children's education in Rwanda.

The Minister of State in Charge of Primary and Secondary Education, Gaspard Twagirayezu, highlighted that Rwanda's Music Education Platform is significant, given that music and arts play a crucial role in fostering creativity, cognitive development, and emotional expression among children.

"Our competency-based curriculum already recognises the importance of these subjects. The platform further reinforces this by offering specialised training programmes for teachers, and ensuring they have the right content to deliver quality music instruction,” he said.

Twagirayezu emphasised the significance of teacher training for improving music education, declaring that effective implementation of education initiatives relies on competent teachers who grasp instructional techniques, methodologies, and student engagement strategies.

He highlighted his personal involvement in music during his childhood, particularly in his school's brass band, which taught him essential life skills beyond music, including discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and a positive attitude.

"I strongly believe that music has a transformative impact on a child's development, fostering not only a love for the arts but also nurturing qualities that are essential for success in various aspects of life,” he said.

He noted that effective training involves meeting trainees at their current level and helping them reach their respective levels and acquire new knowledge.

Regarding the significance of music in a child's development, Dr. Carrick stressed the importance of fostering an emotional connection. He believes children should not just engage with music but also appreciate and love it.

"This connection can drive them to want to learn more and even teach themselves,” said Dr. Carrick.

Laurent Nsanzumuhire, a teacher from TTC St. Jean Baptiste Cyahinda, said the training focuses on practical application, which will enable teachers to better teach their students.

He believes music, as a universal language, fosters open-mindedness and cognitive development in students, nurturing creativity and improving academic performance.

Despite having just five pianos for over a thousand students, Nsanzumuhire highlighted the need for more instruments to enhance the learning experience.

Josephine Mukankubito, a teacher from GS Byumba Catholique, shared her struggles due to inadequate training but expressed optimism about the ongoing workshop. She noted how music not only brings joy but also boosts cognitive abilities.

Mukankubito also called for additional training programmes and more class time dedicated to music to provide students with a comprehensive music education.

The launch of the OmniPeace Foundation and MINEDUC partnership is the first step in a larger vision to provide teachers with the essential and critical resources needed to implement a profound change in music education for Rwandan children.