Save the Children Rwanda

Dancing for Change: How Learners Are Leading the Fight Against School Dropout

Through the Zero Out Of School Children Project, learners at GS Murambi, (Gatsibo District) are taking an active role in ensuring that no child is left behind. As part of an initiative called the “Village at School,” students come together every morning before class to discuss challenges that may lead to dropping out and to identify children who are still out of school.

Every Wednesday afternoon, the energy continues as learners and teachers gather in anti-dropout clubs. Through dance, poetry, and drama, they raise awareness about the importance of staying in school and inspire their peers to keep going.

This approach has proven to be more than just an activity; it is a powerful strategy. It not only helps identify out-of-school children but also strengthens learners’ commitment to their own education.

On this International Dance Day, we celebrate these young changemakers who are using their talents and voices to build a future where every child can access quality education.

Education Above All Foundation ’s Educate A Child program
Rwanda Basic Education Board - REB _Edu
Ministry of Education, Rwanda

On , Save the Children Rwanda joins partners in treating malaria in Rwanda and Burundi. Through our comprehensive Primary Health care interventions, we focus on the treatment of malaria for children, pregnant and lactating women. We also engage Community Health Workers in prevention and control in Mahama, Nyabiheke and Nkamira: The global theme is “Driven to : Now We Can. Now We Must." This is a rallying cry to grasp the moment—to protect lives now and fund a malaria-free future.

When the Zero OOSC Project Support Sparks Community Commitment: Verena’s Story

At 75 years old, Verena Munyambokazi is proving that meaningful support can inspire powerful change within communities.

From Gatsibo District, Verena is a devoted grandmother and guardian to Sandrine, 16, who was recently out of school. When the Zero OOSC Project reached her community, Verena took it upon herself to ensure Sandrine could return to education. To show her support, Verena visits Sandrine at school, follows up on her performance, and continuously encourages her to stay focused on her education.

To Verena, education is a priceless asset and a lifelong treasure that creates opportunities without ever losing its value.

Her story is a powerful reminder that when communities are supported, they rise, and children like Sandrine are given the chance to thrive.





Education Above All Foundation ’s Educate A Child program
Ministry of Education, Rwanda
Rwanda Basic Education Board - REB

With support, we kept children in Mahama, Nyabiheke & Nkamira healthy—providing treatment, vaccines, maternal & child care 24/7.

In 2025, over 92,000 children accessed quality health & nutrition services.

As we mark 32 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, we remember lives lost and honour the courage of survivors. May this renew our commitment to peace, unity, and the well-being of every Rwandan child, our nation’s hope and future.

Through the -funded project, youth mentors with disabilities helped 137 children & youth with disabilities access education, social protection & safety nets—driving real inclusion & opportunity in 2025.

Kwigisha umwana, bisaba imbaraga z’umuryango mugari. Iyo abana bose b**a, umuryango wacu utera imbere. Ijwi ryawe rirakenewe, shishikariza buri mubyeyi kujyana abana be mu ishuri.


Education Above All Foundation
Ministry of Education, Rwanda Rwanda Basic Education Board - REB

Muneza’s Second Chance: No Child Left Behind*

At the age of 13 Muneza* had already faced exclusion, stigma, and had been out of school for three years.

Born with physical and mental disabilities, his early school experience was marked by misunderstanding and a lack of adequate support. Eventually, he dropped out and spent years at home — isolated and disconnected from learning. His father recalls, “I had lost hope.” Everything changed in September 2024 when the National Union of Disability Organizations in Rwanda (NUDOR), through the Zero Out-of-School Children (OOSC) project’s campaign, identified his case.

Through close collaboration with his family and the school, Muneza is now enrolled in an Individual Education Program (IEP) and is thriving in Primary One alongside 45 other children receiving adapted support.

“I like math. I want to be first or second in class,” Muneza says proudly. “I dream of becoming a driver.”

His transformation has been remarkable — from social isolation to active participation, from forgotten lessons to confidently writing his name again.

This is the power of inclusive education. This is what happens when communities come together to ensure every child learns.





Education Above All Foundation ’s Educate A Child program
Rwanda Basic Education Board - REB
Ministry of Education, Rwanda

With the support of and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency , 76 patients with mental health issues in joined reintegration activities, 62 reintegrated fully, with income-generating activities to support their family needs. More funding can help more families rebuild their lives.