NEWS

The Minister of State for Education, Hon. Claudette Irere, officiated the distribution of laptops to year 1 and year 2 students at the University of Rwanda Rukara Campus. She joined esteemed officials, including the Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda, the representative of the Mastercard Foundation’s Country Director, among others, in highlighting the significance of these tools for enhancing education and fostering innovation among university students.

Praising the collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, Hon. Irere highlighted the invaluable contribution made by the Foundation, ensuring that every student-teacher with at least one year of study remaining to complete their program receives a laptop. She emphasized the pivotal role of this partnership in elevating the quality of education and empowering educators. Additionally, she revealed that, thanks to the generous support of the Mastercard Foundation, student-teachers at the UR College of Education will have the opportunity to repay the cost of the laptops provided to them without any interest.

Hon.Irere stressed the responsibility students have in safeguarding the devices handed over to them, highlighting the potential repercussions for any misuse. Stressing the significance of repayment, she underscored how it will contribute to the cycle of support for future student cohorts. Furthermore, she noted that they will be periodic verifications to confirm students’ possession of their laptops, and reiterated the procedural steps to adhere to in the unfortunate event of theft or another issue.

Highlighting the Government of Rwanda’s commitment to enhancing ICT in education, Hon. Irere emphasized the importance of laptops for university students. She noted that these devices are indispensable tools for academic success, enabling students to access educational resources, conduct research, and collaborate with peers effectively.

Before wrapping up her address, Hon. Irere interacted with students, responding to their questions and concerns. She thereafter officiated the distribution of the laptops to the students.

Furthermore, Irere made a tour of the UR Rukara Campus where she visited facilities such as the Digital Media Unit (DMU), generously supported funded by the Mastercard Foundation, known to elevate the quality of education delivery. Hon. Irere also visited the nearly completed construction works of the Demonstration School of UR College of Education, funded by the World Bank Group.

Hon. Claudette Irere’s visit not only marked the distribution of laptops but also served as a testament to Rwanda’s dedication to advancing education through collaboration, innovation, and investment in infrastructure.