Rwanda’s Ministry of Education (MINEDUC) has clarified the absence of Uwamariya Léontine, one of the country’s top-performing O’Level students, from the national examination awards ceremony held in Kigali.
Uwamariya, who studied at ISF Nyamasheke, tied for first place in the 2025/26 national O’Level examinations with Musonga Isimbi Olla of FAWE Girls School in Gasabo District. Both scored 98.7%.
While Musonga attended the ceremony and received her award, Uwamariya was absent, raising questions over why one of the country’s top-performing students was not present to receive national recognition.
MINEDUC said Uwamariya had not been excluded from the awards but that officials were unable to reach her because her contact details could not be established.
The ministry said her award remains reserved and will be handed to her once she is reached.
Despite her absence, Uwamariya was officially recognised as a joint top performer, alongside Musonga, whose award was presented during the ceremony.
Six students were recognised among the best performers at O’Level.
Ganza Joel of Saint Ignatius High School in Gasabo District ranked third with 98.6%.
Uwitonze Kefa Milton of College Saint André in Nyarugenge District came fourth with 98.4%.
The fifth position was shared by Kwizera Mukwiye Richard and Uwase Divine, both from Ecole des Sciences Byimana, who each scored 98.3%.
The clarification follows public discussion over Uwamariya’s absence from the ceremony despite her exceptional performance.
MINEDUC maintains that her absence was not linked to her academic ranking or eligibility for recognition, and that she will receive her award once she becomes available.
