Rwanda is hosting the first ever continental workshop focused on expanding Unified Champion Schools (UCS) across Africa.

In 2020, Rwanda became the first recipient of UCS grant in Africa courtesy of its dedication on applying the Unified Champion Schools model which primarily aims at fighting stigma against children intellectual disabilities through sports.

The model took shape 18 years after the Special Olympic Rwanda was established 2002. The body has been striving for inclusiveness of people with intellectual disability through sports.

The UCS has so far been extended to over 210 schools across the country benefiting more than 20,000 children with intellectual disabilities.

The model has since inspired other countries which have now send delegates to learn from Rwanda’s best practices in the initiative throughout the three-day workshop which runs from September 24-26 at Four Points by Sheraton.

Taking place in Kigali, from September 24-26, the event brings together 50 delegates from 11 African countries to promote inclusive education for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Under the theme "Excellence in Action – Expanding Unified Champion Schools Across Africa," the workshop aims to highlight Rwanda’s leadership in the UCS model, which integrates students with intellectual disabilities into mainstream schools.

"Rwanda has been a global leader in adapting the UCS model to its local context,” said Charles Nyambe, the Regional President and Managing Director of Special Olympics Africa Region. "This workshop empowers other African countries to develop stronger inclusive programs.”

The initiative, which is supported by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has grown through collaboration with Special Olympics International.

Rwanda, now regarded as a "Regional Hub of Excellence" for its exemplary UCS programs, seeks to share its success with other nations across the continent.

"We are proud to share the impact Unified Champion Schools have had in Rwanda and look forward to exchanging ideas with peers across Africa," said Pastor Deus Sangwa, the Chairperson of Special Olympics Rwanda.

The three-day event will cover topics varying from youth leadership and financial accountability to sustainability planning. Participants will also visit Lycée de Kigali to experience Special Olympics Unified Sports, including basketball and handball.

Founded in 2002, Special Olympics Rwanda continues to promote inclusion through sports, engaging over 20,100 athletes across 210 schools.