Ensuring quality education is one of the top priorities under the new government development plan known as the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2). The strategy, presented by Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente to a joint session of Parliament, on September 9, aims to build on the achievements of NST1 and aligns with the broader goals of Vision 2050. ALSO READ: How Rwanda plans to deliver 9.3% growth rates in next five years As noted, the overall objective is to enhance the quality of education at all levels. Ngirente emphasized that the strategy aims to align education with labour market demands, ensure that every Rwandan achieves basic literacy and numeracy skills, and supports national development. ALSO READ: Reflecting on seven years of educational achievements “This includes ensuring that children start school at the right age, and addressing [the problem of] school dropouts by tracking and reintegrating students into the education system,” he said. To achieve these goals, he said, the government plans to improve education quality at every level. In early childhood education, for instance, the number of children attending kindergarten is projected to rise from 35 percent to 65 percent. This will be accompanied by an increase in infrastructure, the recruitment of more teachers, and the providing of modern equipment. Ngirente underscored that in basic education, the focus will be on enhancing teaching and learning by adding more materials and qualified teachers. The government will continue training teachers and ensuring their well-being, aiming to create an environment where educators can deliver high-quality results. “Infrastructure improvements, such as building more schools, will help reduce overcrowding and shorten the distance students must travel to attend school,” he added. Ngirente reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that all children of school age are enrolled and attending school. Collaborating with parents, the government will also implement measures to tackle the root causes of school dropouts. Over the next five years, emphasis will also be placed on strengthening learning in key subjects like maths and languages. Additionally, the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) will be expanded at all education levels. ALSO READ: Target of 60% TVET enrolment by 2024 achievable - RTB boss According to Ngirente, to further develop vocational education and promote modern science and technology, at least one model Technical Secondary School (TSS) Center of Excellence will be established in every district. Vocational Training Colleges (VTCs) will also be set up in each sector, offering short-term career training opportunities for anyone, regardless of prior education. Continuing the progress from NST1, the government aims to ensure that all 416 sectors have a technical secondary school, with the latest data showing that 392 sectors already have such schools. The plan is such that technical students will make up 60 percent of graduates from general education by the end of the next five years.
