Rwanda Trains and Certifies 24,000 Teachers in Under a Year
The Rwandan government has successfully trained and certified 24,000 teachers within a single year, addressing a nationwide need created by the construction of over 22,000 classrooms.
The initiative, part of the Quality Basic Education for Human Capital Development (QBE) project, allowed graduates to begin teaching before attending a Teacher Training College (TTC). Around 25,000 graduates, previously uncertified, were given the opportunity to teach while undergoing accelerated training and certification.
The Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB) launched the programme in April 2024, using weekends and public holidays to deliver condensed modules covering Educational Psychology, Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, and Subject Matter Education.
Thirty-six facilitators trained 600 trainers, who then conducted sessions across all 30 districts. Childcare support and accessible training venues ensured wide participation.
A micro-teaching model formed the backbone of instruction, with trainees teaching peers and receiving structured feedback. Assessments included written tests, a final exam, and practical evaluations by the National Examination and School Inspection Authority (NESA). Successful candidates received Professional Teaching Certificates, gaining formal recognition within the national workforce.
Pelagie Abayikunda, who began teaching French in Kigali as a secondary school graduate, described the programme as transformative. “Through this training, I have learned to manage my classroom, prepare lessons effectively, and support my students,” she said. Certification has also provided her with professional stability, access to scholarships, and financial support through Umwalimu SACCO.
Dr Bernard Bahati, Director General of NESA, emphasised the importance of teacher quality. “Ensuring that every teacher entering the classroom meets national standards is essential for the quality of education,” he said.
Rwanda has also increased teachers’ salaries significantly, absorbed pre-primary teachers into the public payroll, and invested in infrastructure, teaching materials, and digital skills under the QBE project.
Dr Flora Mutezigaju, Deputy Director General of REB, said: “For Rwanda to make the progress we envision, students must be learning well. Well-prepared teachers are central to that mission.”
