About 2268 P4-S3 Maths and Science teachers honored with Certificates in Innovative Teaching Maths and Science

The University of Rwanda-College of Education (UR-CE) held a colorful event on 23 Feb 2024 at the Kigali Convention Centre in which 2268 P4-S3 Maths and Science teachers who completed the CPD programme in Innovative Teaching Mathematics and Science ( CPD-ITMS) conducted under Rwanda Quality Basic Education for Human Capital Development (RQBEHCD Sub-component 1.2) were honored with CPD Certificates in ITMS. The event was graced by Hon. Claudette Irere, Minister of State for Education. Other guests included the UR VC, Prof Kayihura Muganga Didas, and Mrs.Lilian Mutesi, Education Specialist at the World Bank Group, Rwanda on behalf of the Country Director, the Director General of REB, Dr.Nelson Mbarushimana.

In his welcome message the Acting Principal of UR-CE, Prof. Florien Nsanganwimana, said, "Today is a celebration of your commitment to remain updated and to upgrade your competences in order to shape the future of education in our country. I commend you for your perseverance, passion, and the hard work you have invested in this transformative journey."

He added, " The University of Rwanda-College of Education (UR-CE) in collaboration with our esteemed Partner-Rwanda Basic Education Board, has strived to provide you not only with competences but also with the tools to amplify your impact in teaching and learning processes. Now, as you will step into your classrooms with these competences and resources, I encourage you to not only implement what you have learned but also to be agents of change. Be mentors, guides, and an inspiration to your colleagues who have not been fortunate enough to benefit from these CPD programs. We expect you to share your knowledge generously ; showcase the positive transformations you bring to your classrooms, and ignite a spark of enthusiasm in your fellow educators."

The Team Leader and the Principal Investigator of RQBEHCD Sub-component 1.2, Prof. Pheneas Nkundabakura, noted that, as part of the CPD in Innovative Teaching Mathematics and Science (CPD-ITMS) programme, teachers were trained on two modules namely Innovative Teaching Methods for Mathematics and Science (CMS1141) and E-Learning and ICT integration in Teaching and Learning Mathematics and Science (CMS1142). With the modules, Mathematics and Science teachers were trained on integrated innovative pedagogical strategies in teaching and were provided with the opportunities to engage with various Mathematics and Science software, virtual science laboratories, animations, simulations, and subject content, and laboratory activities.

The representative of the Country Director of the World Bank Group to Rwanda, Mrs.Lilian Mutesi, who is an Education Specialist, said that the RQBEHCD project exemplifies the collaborative partnership between the Rwandan government and the World Bank. Jointly, we uphold a shared vision aimed at creating an enabling learning environment that empowers educators and students, ultimately contributing to the overall
development of human capital in Rwanda.

"Your role as trained teachers is pivotal in realizing the project’s objectives, and we commend your resilience, adaptability, and passion for quality education. As you continue to implement innovative methodologies learned through this project and using the modernized instructional tools provided, we encourage you to embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth and improvement", she added.

The Director General of the Rwanda Basic Education Board, Dr, Nelson Mbarushimana, noted, "This significant accomplishment is a reflection of the collective effort and commitment of the Government of Rwanda to advance Mathematics and Science Education and Inclusive Quality Education through the Rwanda Quality Basic Education for Human Capital Development project.

The partnership between the Rwanda Basic Education Board and the University of Rwanda-College of Education made possible this government initiative which aims not only to equip you with knowledge but also to empower you with the tools necessary for creating dynamic and engaging learning environments. The laptops, projectors, math and science kits, formative assessment tools and other instructional provided to you are not mere instruments ; they are rather assets that will amplify the impact of your teaching."

In her speech as the Honour Claudette Irere Minister of State for Education, stressed the importance of investing in teachers as it ultimately benefits future generations, and underlined the need for continuous self-improvement to meet the demands of modern classrooms, and encouraged the graduates to consider further education using the credits earned from their CPD courses.

"Today’s classroom is requiring us to be asking ourselves much more. It’s imperative that we continuously invest in ourselves. I hope that today’s graduation is not the end," she said. Hon Minister of State emphasized the importance of teaching in English to connect with the world, a component that is critical in the project. She thanked the World Bank for supporting the initiative and acknowledged the efforts of everyone involved including UR-CE and REB.

The ceremony also saw the presence of Prof.Pamela Abbott on behalf of Aberdeen University, Scotland which partnered with UR- CE in the implementation of the Adult Literacies project whose 14 successful participants. On this same occasion, UR- CE also awarded CPD Certificates in Adult Literacies to 14 participants, and CPD Diplomas to 1686 primary and secondary teachers who completed the CPD program in Inclusive Quality Education. As an incentive and recognition of their high academic performance, the best performers were awarded laptop machines.

More details through media :

1) Rwanda TV(RBA) : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8POwCECDXak</p> ;

2) The New Times-Rwanda : https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/14835/news/featured/featured-over-3900-teachers-complete-professional-courses-in-science-inclusive-education

3) Isango Star TV : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KM5ssYrAqB4</p> ;

4) Igihe.com : https://mobile.igihe.com/amakuru/u-rwanda/article/abarimu-3900-barangije-amasomo-yo-kunoza-imyigishirize-ya-siyansi</p> ;

5) Other publications : by Flash TV & Radio Salus.