Irerero School, Rwanda

The Challenge

Rwanda’s indigenous forest dwellers are known as "Batwa", and in the national language of Kinyarwanda often called "the people left behind by history".  A dwindling population of about 33,000, they were displaced from their ancestral lands in the twentieth century by wildlife conservation and agricultural expansion, leaving them landless, impoverished, and socially excluded. About one-third perished in the country's 1994 genocide, and survivors were largely excluded from national reconciliation and aid programs. Many lost family members, homes, and any remaining land, while their suffering went largely unacknowledged. Today, their communities face extreme poverty, limited access to education and healthcare, and entrenched discrimination, making them one of Rwanda’s most vulnerable groups.

Although primary and secondary school tuition is free, Batwa families are often unable to afford school uniforms, study materials, or meal contributions. Children may also experience stigma from teachers and peers. The combined result is high absenteeism and dropout rates. Only about 16% oh children complete primary school, and 3% complete secondary education. Adult illiteracy is above 50%.

Irerero's extensive programs reflect the school's community-driven approach to education and empowerment: 

• Early Childhood Education (ages 3–6): Nursery school classrooms that are safe and nurturing, where children receive foundational learning and a daily meal. 
• After-School Tutoring (Grades 4–6): Targeted support to improve student learning and ensure readiness for national exams. 
• Scholarships: Support for secondary and university students, creating pathways for higher learning. 
  

• Library & Technology Access: Books, educational toys, and a planned computer lab with Wi-Fi to equip students with digital skills. 
• Girls’ Empowerment: Cultural arts and dance program that provides mentorship for girls. 
• Sports Programs: Training and recreational activities that promote health, teamwork, and confidence. 
• Skills Training for Youth and Young Adults: Practical vocational skills such as tailoring, hairdressing, and shoemaking that open pathways to employment and income generation. 
• Parent & Community Engagement: Adult literacy classes, farming, animal husbandry, financial training, and awareness-building on health and nutrition to improve community stability and sustainability. 
  

How we help

Mona Foundation has followed Pygmy Survival Alliance's development work in Rwanda with great admiration for many years and thus learned about Irerero School. We are delighted to now join with PSA in supporting the Irerero School to further strengthen and expand the firm foundation they built together: a empowered community-driven model where dedicated local leaders, teachers, parents, and youth are actively engaged in shaping educational opportunities to uplift their children, families, and communities.  

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