KIGALI - The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Friday,held the first ever science competition in schools.

The competition brought together seventeen science schools in Kigali with the aim of encouraging students to embrace science subjects.

Speaking to The Sunday Times at Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), where the competition was held, the coordinator of the competition, Jeong Yong – hee, said that the two-day competition includes a science fair, maths and science competition, computer tests and bridge construction, among other things.

"The competition is meant to encourage students to put more emphasis in science subjects,” said Yong – hee.

Students showcased various talents in science where they presented several topics and solved complicated mathematical problems in a competition.

According to Solange Mukayiranga, in charge of upper secondary in the ministry, the competitions are a trial and the ministry has plans to roll-out the programme to all secondary schools in the country next year.

"The ministry believes that through such competitions, science can be instilled in students,” said Mukayiranga.

Sandra Umutoni a student at FAWE Girls, said that presentations on various topics helped her understand things that she could not understand well in class.

"The competitions are enjoyable and they have instilled a sense of independence in us because we are encouraged to do research on various topics on our own,”
she said.

On the issue that many students fear taking up science subjects in high school, Cooke Scipio a student at Reviera High School, urged fellow students to overcome the fear saying that the field has a lot to explore.

"Sciences are practical subjects which everyone who has the willingness and determination can sail through without any problem,” he explained.

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