Government schools across the country have received solar panels to facilitate the use of cell phones, speakers, computers, and projectors.

The items were distributed under the United States Agency for International Development’s (Usaid) Literacy, Language, and Learning (L3) Initiative, implemented by Education Development Centre.

The distribution of 1,500 solar panels began in July and ended this month.

The Rwanda Education Board (Reb) with the support of Usaid’s L3 Initiative has developed a comprehensive package of print and audio materials for P1 and P2 Kinyarwanda, English, and mathematics, which is now in use at more than 2,600 schools nationwide.

As part of this programme, more than 12,000 loudspeakers and cell phones, loaded with audio lessons were distributed.

Audio lessons guide the teacher and students through effective interactive lessons, using songs, games, and chants. The audio introduces new techniques proven to develop children’s literacy and numeracy skills, and also provides both teachers and students the opportunity to listen to fluent English speakers with clear pronunciation.

Access to a reliable source of electricity is essential for schools being able to use cellphones and speakers for the audio lessons.

"We’re happy to have the solar panels at primary schools throughout the country,” said Peter Malnak, Usaid/Rwanda Mission Director.

"They will be a source of power for the new audio lessons and will help prepare the young generation to be a part of the 21st century workforce.”

In addition to cell phones and speakers, the solar panels will power the use of netbook computers and projectors.

As part of Reb’s School-based Mentoring Programme, 1,000 mentors across the country use projectors and netbook computers, loaded with video-based resource packages, to train teachers in using the new L3 instructional materials and methods.

"We are committed to leveraging technology in innovative ways to support education and ultimately development in Rwanda,” said Reb director general John Rutayisire.

Dr Rutayisire said the provision of solar panels will harmonise Reb’s effort to provide equal access to innovative technology, enabling more schools to benefit from initiatives like One Laptop per Child.

The impact will also extend beyond the classroom.

"This initiative is not only lighting up the school, but lighting up the whole community,” he said.

"Schools with solar panels will become centres of community development and learning, changing the lives of those communities,” he added.