First Lady Jeannette Kagame on May 24 presided over a ceremony honoring 123 high-achieving schoolgirls from across Rwanda.
The event, hosted at Intare Conference Arena, also celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Promotion of Girls’ Education Campaign, an initiative launched in 2005 under Imbuto Foundation to advance gender equity in education.
The girls, recognized under the Inkubito z’Icyeza program, were selected from primary, ordinary, and advanced levels for their academic excellence. This year’s awarding marks two decades of efforts to increase school enrolment, encourage academic performance, and reduce dropout rates among girls.
Reflecting on the program’s legacy, Mrs. Kagame said: “It has been 20 years since we planted the seeds of building capacity, confidence, and knowledge in the girl child. Today, we see the fruits in schools, families, workplaces, and across the nation.”
She acknowledged the positive trajectory of former awardees, noting their roles in diverse sectors including healthcare, education, and public service. She stressed the importance of combining academic success with life skills.
“Getting good grades is not enough. The world is changing rapidly, and young people must have the mindset and behavior to navigate these changes, critical thinking, confidence, and the ability to make informed decisions,” she warned.
The First Lady reminded students to look ahead and plan for the future, urging them to reflect on their aspirations for the next 20 years. “As we celebrate this milestone, I urge each of you to ask yourselves where the next 20th anniversary should find you, as capable, intelligent women and future parents.”
She also pointed out that while the initiative focuses on girls, equal attention should be paid to boys too. “We must ensure that boys are also guided and empowered. Raising children well, both girls and boys, is a responsibility we all share, and it benefits the whole society.”
Minister of State for Education, Claudette Irere, highlighted the progress made in increasing girls’ access to education.
“Today, girls make up 50.5% of primary school students and 60% in secondary schools. However, in universities, only 36% are female. We must continue encouraging girls to pursue higher education, especially in science and technology,” she noted.
Elodie Shami, Director General of Imbuto Foundation, said the program’s 20-year journey demonstrates its long-term impact. “Investing in a girl’s education is the foundation of national development. We’ve worked with parents, schools, and communities to help girls succeed academically and socially,” she said.
Several former awardees shared their personal journeys including Dr. Janet Kayesu, now a medical doctor at Nyagatare District Hospital, credited the program for playing a key role in her academic path.
Being awarded at a young age gave me the confidence to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor. It also eased the financial burden for my family,” she shared.
Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), encouraged students to stay grounded in their values. “Adaptation is necessary in today’s world, but it does not mean accepting everything. Learn to discern right from wrong and stand firm in your identity,” she advised.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Shema Blessing Gianna expressed appreciation for the recognition and pledged commitment to their personal and academic growth. “We promise to remain disciplined, work hard, and become responsible citizens who contribute positively to our communities and nation,” she said.
As Inkubito z’Icyeza enters its third decade, the initiative remains a key driver of Rwanda’s efforts to empower girls through education and leadership development, reinforcing the national goal of inclusive and equitable education for all.
