“Teachers Are the Pillars of Development, Communities with Teachers Must Lead by Example” – PM Dr. Ngirente

Kigali-Rwanda, On December 13, 2024, Rwanda marked International Teachers’ Day with a national celebration held at Intare Arena in Kigali. Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente highlighted the vital role that teachers play in the country’s development, emphasizing that communities where teachers reside should set a standard for progress due to the knowledge and values teachers embody.

In his address, the Prime Minister underlined that Rwanda’s progress is deeply rooted in the contributions of teachers who nurture and impart knowledge that transforms lives.  “Every achievement Rwanda has made stems from the fact that its children passed through the hands of teachers who equipped them with the skills to drive development. Teachers are key to shaping individuals capable of building and advancing the nation,” he said.

Dr. Ngirente praised teachers for instilling values in Rwanda’s future generations, urging them to continue leveraging their knowledge to uplift the communities they live in. He added: “A community or village with a teacher should not resemble one without a teacher. Your expertise must go beyond the classroom. You must be catalysts of development where you live, offering constructive ideas and modeling values such as patriotism.”

Prime Minister Ngirente reiterated that quality education is the cornerstone of national development, affirming the government’s commitment to supporting teachers in fulfilling their mission.

“We greatly value your contribution, which goes beyond classroom instruction. By nurturing children with both knowledge and values, you are shaping a brighter future for Rwanda”, he concluded.

Government commitment to teachers’ welfare

Speaking on behalf of teachers, Veronique Uwambaje commended the Rwandan government for its efforts to improve teachers’ welfare, including salary increases and the establishment of Umwarimu(Teacher) SACCO (Savings and Credit Cooperative), a cooperative providing low-interest loans to support teachers’ personal and professional development.

She remarked: “Umwarimu SACCO has helped us improve our livelihoods and solve daily challenges. Salary increments have also significantly enhanced our living standards. We deeply appreciate the government’s unwavering support.”

Uplifting education for vision 2050

Teachers pledged to enhance the quality of education by fostering critical skills such as innovation, technology, and vocational training among students. These efforts align with Rwanda’s long-term goal of building a knowledge-based economy as part of Vision 2050.

This year’s celebration underscored the critical role of teachers as the backbone of Rwanda’s development. It also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to improving their welfare and enhancing the quality of education, positioning the nation for sustained progress in the years ahead.

By Telesphore KABERUKA