Rwanda and Japan, on March 5, signed a loan agreement worth Rwf118 billion aimed at financing digital transformation in the education sector and ensuring equitable access to quality education.

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The financing agreement in the form of a concessional loan also seeks to enhance operational efficiency across primary and secondary levels, and foster an enriched learning environment within technical colleges.

It was signed between the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Uzziel Ndagijimana, and Minako Shiotsuka, Chief Representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Ambassador of Japan to Rwanda, Isao Fukushima.

Commenting on the agreement, Ndagijimana said it exemplifies the bilateral cooperation between Japan and Rwanda and aligns with the country’s vision.

"The government places paramount importance on a robust education sector, recognising it as a fundamental catalyst for Rwanda’s future development endeavours.”

Rwanda’s education sector leads with high budget allocation among other sectors with Rwf760 billion earmarked in the fiscal year 2023/2024, highlighting the different initiatives to improve and deliver quality education.

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Fukushima said that based on Japan’s human-centred development cooperation, education is not only the foundation of economic development of a country but also essential for individuals to live in dignity as human beings.

"It is the very reason why we must ensure equal access to education for all people, regardless of where they live in the world. I sincerely hope this loan will further create a synergy effect with the other projects, contributing to making Rwanda a country where all people have access to quality education.”

Bilateral cooperation between Japan and Rwanda has among others supported the water and sanitation programmes, agriculture, energy, transport, and education sectors.