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Motorcyclists are very excited to be awarded certificates in basic language training

Nyagatare, 28 February 2025 – The University of Rwanda - College of Education (UR-CE), through the 4-in-1 Literacy Model Project sponsored by the Mastercard Foundation’s Leaders in Teaching (LIT) initiative, continues to make a meaningful impact on local communities through education and practical support. In a special ceremony held at the Nyagatare Youth Centre, over 80 motorcyclists operating in Nyagatare District were awarded certificates of completion after successfully undergoing a three-month training in basic communication in Kinyarwanda, Kiswahili, English, and French.

Motorcyclists demonstrating that they have acquired basics of communication in the four languages

The training was designed to equip transport operators with essential language skills, enabling them to communicate effectively with a diverse range of passengers, including tourists, expatriates, and cross-border travelers. Many motorcyclists had previously faced challenges due to language barriers, limiting their ability to serve a broader clientele.

Motorcyclists and facilitators posing for a group photo

As part of the initiative, the project also provided umbrellas to 60 motorcyclists who demonstrated outstanding commitment throughout the training. These umbrellas will help shelter passengers from harsh weather conditions, further enhancing the safety and comfort of both riders and their customers.

Motocyclists were trained in languages and also supported with umbrellas

During interviews, motorcyclists expressed great excitement about the language skills they had acquired, emphasizing how the training would transform their daily interactions with passengers. Many recalled past struggles when communicating with foreign-language speakers, which often led to missed business opportunities.

"Before this training, I would avoid approaching passengers who spoke foreign languages because I couldn’t communicate with them," said Munyemana Aaron, one of the trainees. "I remember a recent incident when a Ugandan student from East African University Rwanda wanted a ride to the Rwanda-Uganda border. Unfortunately, he spoke only English, and I couldn’t understand him, so I lost that opportunity. But now, I can confidently communicate in English, French, and Kiswahili. Some of my younger colleagues questioned why I was studying at my age, but I always told them that my goal was to improve my business by learning languages for better communication. Now, I am excited that I will no longer miss passengers due to language barriers."

Another motorcyclist, Mbarushimana Jean Damascene, recalled a similar experience : "Before this training, my language skills were very limited. I once missed a passenger from Tanzania who wanted me to take him to a hotel, but I couldn’t understand what he was saying. It was frustrating to lose a customer simply because of a language barrier. But now, after this training, I feel confident communicating in English, Kiswahili, and French, in addition to Kinyarwanda. This will help me serve more passengers and grow my business."

Successful candidates were awarded certificates

Prof. Epimaque NIYIBIZI, the Principal Investigator of the 4-in-1 Project, noted, "This project is a testament to the transformative power of education. We initially launched this initiative with farmers and informal workers from Kayonza and Nyagatare in the vicinity of the UR campuses. As the project began yielding positive results and making a significant impact on the community, we decided to extend our activities to include motorcyclists—a critical category in local transportation.

"Our operations, he continued, are currently concentrated in a limited geographical area due to financial constraints ; however, we are hopeful of securing additional support once the project demonstrates measurable positive impact. Our ultimate goal is to continue enhancing economic opportunities and improving the quality of life for all community members."

Expanding to Kayonza : Training and umbrella distribution to continue

Building on its success in Nyagatare, the program will expand to Kayonza District, where motorcyclists interested in improving their language skills will have the opportunity to enroll in similar training starting on 7 March 2025. The initiative aims to equip more transport operators with essential communication skills that will enhance their interactions with passengers and boost their daily earnings.

Due to limited financial resources, the project will provide umbrellas to 60 motorcyclists in Kayonza who demonstrate outstanding commitment throughout the training. This approach ensures that those who actively engage in the learning process receive additional support to enhance their services.

The 4-in-1 Literacy Model Project is an innovative educational program that focuses on literacy, numeracy, and basic digital skills for adults who missed formal education. It is structured to ensure that participants acquire proficiency in four key languages : Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Kiswahili. Since its launch, the project has transformed lives, with over 400 adults from Nyagatare and Kayonza districts benefiting from training and receiving certificates.

As the project progresses, it remains a shining example of how education, when paired with thoughtful community engagement, can create lasting change. Through these efforts, UR-CE is not only bridging literacy gaps but also equipping communities with practical skills to enhance their livelihoods.

Story by : NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac, PRO, UR-CE