In the community around Rwanda’s Gishwati-Mukura National Park area in the country’s Western Province, Wilderness and Children in the Wilderness (CITW) Rwanda have partnered with Gisunzu Primary School. After a recent request from the school leaders and Gishwati community committee, we were proud to support the school with its renovation of the special girls’ room, and the library.
Every week the school facilitates Eco-Club activities with its 64 student members. Using specially produced CITW curriculum books, the Club activities are focused on environmental education. The positive impact on the children is noticeable through the increase in their national exam marks in subjects including elementary science, technology, social and religious studies, and also mathematics.
These students are in P6 and it is also remarkable to note that the number of learners graduating to secondary school has been steadily increasing since 2020. What’s more, Gisunzu is now known as the best primary school in the Gishwati area, with many more top performing students than in the other primary schools – so amazing!
Recently we supported the school to renovate the special girls’ room, known in Rwanda as ICYUMBA CY’UMUKOBWA. It offers a safe and private space for girls to manage their menstrual hygiene, which can significantly impact their attendance and academic performance; the room is equipped with sanitary pads, towels, a bed, body lotion and soap, among other hygiene products.
We also supported the rehabilitation of the library at the school, which offers access to diverse resources, fosters a love of reading, and helps develop essential skills like research and critical thinking. The library promotes independent learning and a space for collaboration while the students are at school.
Gisunzu Primary School has a total of 435 students, with 75 girls who use the special room. The two projects were completed at a cost of USD 1,005.45, which was provided by donations from our generous Wilderness guests.
“Before the special girls’ room was set up, absenteeism and dropouts among girls was a significant issue, and as teachers we understood the situation but couldn’t do anything about it. Really, thanks a lot Wilderness and CITW for the continuous support that you provide to our school”, said Cyprien Maniragaba, Gisunzu Primary School Head Teacher.
