Teachers Call Government to Boost Their Training and Wellbeing Programs

By Xaverine Cyiza.

The celebration of International Teacher’s Day in Rwanda showcased a strong call from educators for enhanced training opportunities and improved welfare programs.

The event was held at INTARE ARENA on December 14, 2023, with the theme: “The Teachers We Need for The Education We Want,” highlighting key areas of concern and progress within the education sector, such as Training and Welfare Programs and Government Initiatives towards Educational Development.

Teachers emphasized the need for increased training opportunities to enhance their skills and improve the quality of education. They also called for better programs to support their daily lives, such as access to affordable accommodation near their workplaces, which would facilitate their work.

During the celebration, 1,058 outstanding teachers were awarded prizes, including recognition for their efforts in improving ICT skills. Additionally, five schools excelling in the 2022/2023 State Examinations were acknowledged for their achievements.

Claudette Irere, the Minister of State in charge of ICT and Technical Vocational Education and Training highlighted the pivotal role of teachers in achieving the desired changes in Rwanda’s education system.

The government has implemented measures to increase school enrollment (97.7% attendance rate), decrease school dropouts (reduced from 9.5% to 8.5%), and enhance the quality of education.

Rwanda aims to become a knowledge-based economy, valuing education as a crucial pillar. Special attention is given to teachers through various initiatives, including scholarships to improve their knowledge and teaching quality. The government also emphasizes computer skills training for teachers to promote technology-based education.

Teachers stressed the importance of affordable accommodation and increased scholarships to improve their lives and enhance their professional growth. They highlighted the government’s support for their welfare and professional development.

Government Commitment

Gaspard Twagirayezu, the Minister of Education thanked teachers for their contributions and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting them. He emphasized ongoing efforts to improve teacher welfare, increase training opportunities, and collaborate with educators to enhance the education system.

 

Currently, there are more than one hundred and twenty thousand (121,354) teachers in Rwanda, including 104,720 teaching in public and government-aided institutions, 5,588 teaching in vocational and technical institutions, and 11,046 teaching in private institutions. These teachers play a vital role in the country’s education landscape.

The Teacher’s Day celebration served as a platform for educators to articulate their needs and aspirations, underscoring the crucial role of teachers in shaping Rwanda’s education and development trajectory. The government’s commitment to enhancing training programs and supporting teacher welfare reflects its dedication to advancing education across the country.

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