Unity Club Intwararumuri, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Youth and Arts, and the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement, has launched the fifth phase of the Ndi Umunyarwanda program, a national initiative aimed at promoting unity, national identity, and reconciliation among Rwandan youth.
The launch took place at Lycée de Kigali, where officials and leaders addressed students, emphasizing the values that define a true Rwandan and the importance of building a society free from divisions. The program’s theme, “Ndi Umunyarwanda: The Core Idea of Our Existence,” encourages students to understand that being Rwandan goes beyond ethnicity, focusing instead on shared values and commitment to the country’s future.
Unlike previous phases that targeted universities, this stage will engage students from approximately 100 secondary schools nationwide, beginning with 26 schools in Kigali and the Western Province. The sessions aim to deepen young people’s knowledge of Rwanda’s history, promote reconciliation, and strengthen national cohesion.
Dr. Utumatwishima Jean Nepo Abdallah, Minister of Youth and Arts, highlighted the program’s positive impact among university students, noting that it has contributed to a reduction in attitudes linked to genocide ideology. He stressed the need to expand the initiative to secondary schools after observing worrying trends among some young people influenced by misinformation or a lack of historical understanding.
Dr UTUMATWISHIMA Jean Nepo Abdallah Minister of youth and arts
“The youth play a key role in maintaining peace and unity,” Dr. Utumatwishima said. “Through dialogue, creativity, and civic engagement, they can counter harmful narratives, avoid destructive behaviors, and carry forward Rwanda’s journey of reconciliation.”
Students participating in the program expressed appreciation, noting that it motivates them to respect one another, work collaboratively, and take responsibility for the country’s future.
The Ndi Umunyarwanda in Schools program continues to serve as a cornerstone for nurturing responsible, patriotic youth who are aware of Rwanda’s history, committed to unity, and prepared to contribute to the nation’s ongoing development.
