Uwamariya Léontine, top national exam performer, heads to Jordan to continue her studies

Uwamariya, who studied at ISF Nyamasheke Secondary School, scored 98.7 percent in the national examinations, matching the score achieved by Musonga Isimbi Orah of Fawe Girls’ School.

The two students were expected to continue their upper secondary education at Rwanda Coding Academy in Nyabihu District, a school specializing in technology education.

Uwamariya’s absence from a national awards ceremony held in Kigali on August 20 to recognize the best-performing students sparked considerable discussion on social media.

The Ministry of Education later explained that the absence resulted from a communication problem. According to the ministry, the official responsible for contacting Uwamariya’s family had called her parents but was unable to reach them.

On August 21, Uwamariya, who lives in Rusizi District, was officially received at the Ministry of Education, where she was presented with her awards, including a laptop and a certificate of recognition.

Speaking to journalists at the time, Uwamariya said she hoped to become a technology expert and contribute to the development of computer software.

She has now opted to pursue her secondary education outside Rwanda, with the family confirming that she has traveled to Jordan after sitting examinations intended to help her secure a scholarship to study there.

Minani Cyprien, Uwamariya’s parent, told IGIHE that the family was pleased with the opportunity but declined to provide further details about her journey.

“It’s exciting,” he said.

Details about the school Uwamariya will attend in Jordan, the subjects she will study and the institution or programme that awarded her scholarship have not yet been made public.