Japan’s JICA Marks 20 Years in Rwanda With Focus on Education Gains

Anniversary celebrations were held at TTC Muhanga in Shyogwe Sector, Muhanga District, bringing together government officials, educators, students and development partners to recognize Japan’s contribution to improving science and technology education.

Through its volunteer program, JICA has supported the integration of mathematics, science and information technology into teacher training. At TTC Muhanga, the agency has helped establish information and communication technology labs, provided high-speed internet and deployed volunteers to strengthen practical learning.

Students say the support has transformed how they study and prepare for careers in education. Nadine Ikirezi, a second-year mathematics and physics student, said access to internet and modern equipment has made research easier and lessons more interactive. She added that vocational skills training, including soap-making, has also equipped students with entrepreneurship skills that could support them beyond the classroom.

Sixth-year student Elysa Niyonkuru said smartphones provided through the program have expanded students’ access to digital learning materials and strengthened their ability to use technology in daily studies.

JICA Rwanda Chief Representative Minako Shiotsuka said education remains a central pillar of the agency’s work, particularly in strengthening mathematics and technology instruction. She noted that JICA’s activities in Rwanda also extend to agriculture, health and community development.

Since opening its office in Kigali in 2005, JICA has worked with about 400 volunteers in Rwanda, supported more than 30,000 farmers and improved access to clean water for over 740,000 people. More than 1,000 Rwandans have also traveled to Japan for advanced training.