Students have been urged to take interest in learning about and preserving the Rwanda culture.

The message was relayed to students during a tour of the Green Hills Academy family last week at Rutunga, Gikomero in Gasabo District, where they had gone to celebrate the annual Gasabo cultural event with Form Six students. This particular place was chosen because it is believed to be the cradle of Rwanda, symbolised by a big tree that has been there for generations.

The event that takes place every end of academic year was aimed at teaching students about the history and culture of Rwanda, and how they should pass it to the future generation.

Gaspard Kagenza, the deputy headmaster Green Hills Academy, said the event will help students appreciate their culture and know how to use it to develop the country.

"Our students will be leaving for studies in various parts of the country and also across the world. Showing them how their origin began and the whole history of Rwanda is one way of making them recognise their identity and remembering their country. We want them to have full memory of their country since culture is a source of identity for every individual,” he said.

He added that when the students have a clear memory of their country, it is easier for them to participate in developing it in later years.

Faustin Rutabagiwa, an elder and resident of Gasabo, said Rwandans have always had different challenges but still emerged as a strong country.

He called upon students to remember that the success of any country depends on its people taking charge and making sure they leave it a better place for future generations.

"This tree has roots which have spread far, and since Rwanda started from this tree, students should come here to learn about their origin,” he says.

Kassy Irebe Rudahunga, a Senior Six student and head girl, said the event had helped her learn a great deal about her country.

"I am inspired by this experience to make my country better. One of the things that helped our country keep together is peace and hard work; practicing that will be my priority,” she said.

As part of the activities, the students contributed money that will be used to help 250 people from Gasabo get health insurance.