Rwanda mulls integrating robotics into school curriculum

Up to 26 schools across the country have received robotics kits as part of a national piloting phase to integrate robotics into the curriculum, according to officials. The experiment is, overall, expected to pave the way for a new generation of innovators and leaders. The robotics kits handover ceremony held on September 12 marked the official launch of a piloting phase that will introduce students to robotics technology in classrooms starting this academic year. Up to 452 robotics kits containing consumable and non-consumable materials will benefit over 3,020 students from primary, O-Level, A-Level, and TVET schools. ALSO READ: REB to include robotics courses in national curriculum The initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, and GIZ, aims to foster essential skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while cultivating a culture of innovation among young learners. The programme is also designed to integrate robotics into the national curriculum, equipping students with the practical tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving global technology landscape. Nelson Mbarushimana, the Director General of the Rwanda Education Board (REB), highlighted the transformative potential of the programme. He emphasized that this initiative represents more than just the handover of robotics kits—it is the unlocking of potential for both teachers and students. ALSO READ: Kagame awards students with best robotics, AI projects “As Rwanda continues to position itself as a hub for innovation and technological advancements, it is our duty to equip the youth with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world,” Mbarushimana said. He said that the 33 educators have undergone training to lead the initiative in their schools. Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming Rwanda’s education system and preparing its youth for a technology-driven future. “These robotics kits are more than just technology—they are tools to spark curiosity and creativity in our classrooms,” said Ingabire. “While this is a pilot phase, we are already envisioning a future where every Rwandan student, no matter where they are, has access to the tools, resources, and training to compete in the global technology landscape.” Peter Primus, the Chargé d'Affaires at the German Embassy, said that the integration of robotics into the educational framework is a powerful way to cultivate these vital skills among students. “Robotics combines creativity with technical knowledge, encouraging young minds to think critically and solve complex problems. It fosters collaboration as students work together on projects, learning from one another while developing communication skills that will serve them well in any field they choose to pursue,” he said. Joselyne Nyirandungutse, a science and elementary technology (SET) teacher at GS Kamonyi, called the programme “timely and essential for enhancing teaching methodology.” She noted that the robotics kits complement existing teaching tools, helping students understand complex concepts more effectively while allowing teachers to apply their knowledge practically. Similarly, Leon Munyagasozi, a teacher at GS Munyinya in Muhanga District, shared that “In the past, much of our training has been theoretical. Now, we are excited to transfer this knowledge to students in a hands-on manner. Students who were less engaged before will now be able to apply what they learn in real-time, which will make a big difference in their understanding.”

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Rwanda mulls integrating robotics into school curriculum