Rwanda steps up efforts to strengthen international student assessment

By The Inspirer.

Rwandan education authorities are intensifying efforts to improve participation in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), a global study conducted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) that measures the skills and knowledge of 15-year-old students.

On Monday, February 23, 2026, officials, educators, and key stakeholders gathered to review the PISA 2025 report, discuss its methodology, and provide feedback to strengthen Rwanda’s national analysis and reporting.

Understanding PISA and its impact

First conducted in 2000, PISA is administered every three years to evaluate reading, mathematics, and science skills. The assessment now involves 91 countries, up from 32 at its inception.

Carlène Seconde Umutoni, deputy director general of the National Examinations and School Inspection Authority (NESA), said PISA is unique because it measures students’ ability to apply knowledge rather than memorize facts.

“The strength of PISA lies in how it assesses understanding and practical application, linking results to education policy and learning outcomes,” she said.

Rwanda began participating in PISA in 2022. Preparations for the 2025 assessment are well advanced, with results expected to be released nationally and internationally in September 2026.

Engaging stakeholders for actionable insights

Dr. Bahati Bernard, director general of NESA, emphasized that the current phase focuses on analyzing results and collecting input from educators to guide policy decisions.

“This is a critical stage. Students have completed the assessment, and we are processing the results while gathering feedback to inform education strategies that address local challenges,” he said.

Broad participation across schools

Rwanda’s PISA participants included 213 schools: 81 public schools, 18 private schools, 2 international schools, and 112 government-supported schools. Rural schools accounted for 77 percent of participants, with urban schools making up 23 percent.

NESA stressed that all students should leave school with comparable skills. The agency is also ensuring inclusive assessment, including provisions for children with disabilities.

Linking PISA to Rwanda’s education goals

Dr. Bahati noted that Rwanda’s education sector strategic plan 2024–2029 aims to expand access to quality education, integrate technology, and promote inclusion for girls and children with disabilities.

“Currently, only 44.7 percent of children attend pre-primary school, though 95 percent should be enrolled. Secondary school enrollment is also a challenge. Without full participation, PISA results cannot fully reflect our national learning outcomes,” he said.

NESA aims to improve enrollment and completion rates by 2029, reducing absenteeism and ensuring more students complete primary education.

By leveraging PISA data, Rwanda seeks to identify areas for improvement, inform policy, and strengthen the quality and inclusivity of its education system.