The Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana, has reaffirmed that teachers are the cornerstone of Rwanda’s education system, emphasizing that the quality of education, knowledge, and skills the country continues to achieve is built on teachers’ dedication and commitment.
He made the remarks on Friday, December 12, 2025, while addressing teachers, school leaders, and other education stakeholders during national celebrations marking International Teachers’ Day.
The event was held at the Kirehe District Cultural and Entertainment Hall and brought together more than 1,000 participants from across the country, the majority of whom were from the host district.
International Teachers’ Day is normally commemorated annually on October 5 as a way of recognizing the teaching profession and those who serve in it. This year’s national celebration was held at the close of the academic year, allowing educators to reflect on their achievements and to mark the festive season as they prepare for the year ahead.
The celebration was held under the theme “Teaching is a profession that requires collaboration,” which Minister Nsengimana used to underscore the importance of partnership among teachers, parents, and education stakeholders.
“Collaboration is essential if we are to improve the quality of education in our country,” he said.
The Minister highlighted the significant contribution teachers continue to make toward improving the quality of education in Rwanda and advancing the country’s overall development through education.
“A teacher is the backbone of Rwanda’s education system,” Nsengimana said. “The quality of education, as well as the knowledge and skills our nation continues to attain, rests on the effort and dedication of teachers.”
He urged educators to continue strengthening their professional capacity through continuous training and self-development, and to prioritize students’ moral and academic development. He also called on parents to create time for their children to study and to encourage them to value education.
Minister Nsengimana further urged district authorities and local administrative structures to strengthen oversight and improve the management of schools.
He appealed to development partners to remain engaged in supporting education initiatives, particularly in the construction of school infrastructure, the provision of teaching and learning materials, and the delivery of capacity-building training.
“Such collaboration is the foundation upon which we will continue to develop our country and achieve our national commitments,” he said, adding that, “when this cooperation exists, the quality of education improves and children are able to learn effectively.”
The Minister commended schools that performed well in last year’s national examinations, encouraging them to sustain the same level of excellence.
“These results are the outcome of the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of our teachers,” he said.
He concluded by noting that the gathering was organized to recognize and appreciate teachers and to encourage them to continue striving for excellence in their profession.
