The UK has announced new education partnerships and projects in Rwanda, aimed at supporting access to education and improving learning outcomes.
- The Girls in Rwanda Learn (GIRL) program, funded by the UK government, will focus on keeping girls in school and supporting children with disabilities. It will operate in 50% of the poorest performing schools in Rwanda and is expected to benefit 700,000 children.
- The UK Minister for Development and Africa, Andrew Mitchell, signed a 7-year partnership with UNICEF under the GIRL program. This partnership will work towards addressing the challenges faced by girls in accessing education and ensuring their retention in schools.
- The British Council’s Digital Library will also be launched in Rwanda, providing free access to over 80,000 educational resources for a period of 12 months. This initiative aims to enhance the availability of educational materials and resources in the country.
- The UK’s engagement in Rwanda extends beyond education. British Investment Partnerships are supporting various sectors in Rwanda, such as water infrastructure, renewable energy, health, and telecommunications, contributing to economic growth and creating local job opportunities.
- The partnership between the UK and Rwanda is focused on eradicating poverty, promoting education (especially for girls), and improving public service delivery.
- Minister Mitchell’s visit to Rwanda includes interactions with participants of UK-funded development programs, where he will learn about the impact of UK funding in building resilience and reducing poverty. Additionally, UK experts have been providing training in English and math to teachers in primary schools across Rwanda.
- High-level discussions will take place between Minister Mitchell and President of Rwanda Paul Kagame, as well as Minister of Foreign Affairs Vincent Biruta, focusing on bilateral relations and regional issues.
- The UK is committed to further strengthening its economic partnership with Rwanda and will host the UK-African Investment Summit in London in April 2024.