Parliamentarians commended the government’s achievements in improving the quality of education at all levels over the past seven years. However, they also raised key issues that hinder the full realization of quality education. The discussions took place on Thursday, April 18, as Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente addressed a joint session of both Chambers of Parliament, outlining the government’s efforts from 2017 to 2023. While acknowledging significant progress, Ngirente emphasised the government’s commitment to further enhancing the education system. Key initiatives highlighted included the expansion of classrooms, school feeding programmes, connectivity enhancement, curriculum reforms, increased access to educational resources such as books and laptops, and improved access to clean water. School feeding programme MP Frank Habineza noted the government’s efforts in the school feeding programme but raised concerns about the satisfaction of some parents regarding the type and quantity of food provided. He suggested allowing parents to pay extra for their children’s meals. Ngirente mentioned the need for equality in fees based on the average income of Rwandans. He assured that the current quality and quantity of meals are adequate, and while the government welcomes support, it prohibits additional charges. ALSO READ: School feeding programme budget rises to Rwf 90 billion: what it means MP Pelagie Uwera expressed concern about fluctuating prices affecting the programme. Ngirente assured MPs of ongoing monitoring and measures to mitigate the impact of price hikes, including long-term solutions in the school feeding department. Government contributions to school feeding programmes surged from Rwf 6 billion in 2017/2018 to Rwf 90 billion in 2023/2024, ensuring improved student welfare. Unused laptops Habineza also raised concerns about unused laptops in schools and urged the government to address the issue. Ngirente acknowledged the problem and mentioned ongoing initiatives to encourage resource utilisation. He also emphasised individual accountability in cases of mismanagement. Infrastructure affected by UR, RP’s reform MP Habineza inquired about the fate of medical school infrastructure in Kigali following reforms, while another MP asked about the Gikondo campus. Ngirente explained plans to utilise teaching hospitals and reassured that the relocation of the medical college to the Huye campus would not affect infrastructure, as facilities would accommodate students during internships, adding that the Gikondo campus will still serve as the headquarters of UR. ALSO READ: Parliament approves draft law governing UR, Rwanda Polytechnic The reforms aim to improve these institutions’ functionality, particularly by fostering similar structures, functions, and financial autonomy. Lack of infrastructure for students with disabilities MPs also voiced concerns about infrastructure and resources for students with disabilities. Ngirente acknowledged the ongoing efforts to address disability issues, including infrastructure development and teacher training among others. ALSO READ: Teachers with disabilities call for inclusive school infrastructure Overcrowding MP Theoneste Bigumisa acknowledged efforts to increase classrooms but highlighted persisting overcrowding. Ngirente reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding classrooms along with other resources, such as books, and chairs among others to address population growth. Moreover, he said that the government has persistently amplified resources to enhance student learning experiences. This includes providing suitable chairs to ensure comfort and prevent distractions, and addressing the previous shortage by focusing on repairs. Additionally, there are ongoing plans to equip schools with additional equipment and supplies such as books and computers, vital for creating an engaging learning environment. “This commitment to improving education is continuous, contributing to both individual student growth and the nation’s overall capacity development,” Ngirente said. ALSO READ: VIDEO: Inside Rwanda’s most overcrowded school
