Global Civic Sharing Rwanda, has donated funds to support primary and secondary schools in Nyarubaka Sector, Kamonyi District, under the “Dusangire Lunch” program. This initiative, which has been running for three years, provides approximately 1,200,000 Rwandan Francs annually to assist children from disadvantaged families. The program aims to encourage students to love learning by addressing nutritional challenges.
David Kagina, headmaster of Kambyeyi Primary School, highlighted the program’s positive impact on education. Since its inception, children no longer leave school to find meals at home, a situation that previously caused some not to return due to the lack of food. Kagina noted that the program ensures students have lunch throughout the year, fostering consistent attendance and improving the quality of education. He expressed gratitude for the organization’s support, stating that it has reduced absences and enhanced the school environment.
The program also gives students more time to focus on their studies. Kagina explained that before its implementation, children spent time traveling home for lunch, but now they can dedicate that time to learning. This has notably improved their confidence and English language skills. However, challenges remain, including the lack of proper dining facilities, which delays students from resuming classes after meals as they must clean the classrooms used for eating. Kagina called for a dedicated dining area to address this issue, noting that the current setup affects the learning environment.
Niyigena Alberthine, a sixth-grade student at Kambyeyi Primary School, shared how the program has boosted her academic performance. She revealed that her grades improved from 50% to 70% since she started having lunch at school in third grade. She urged leaders to provide a proper dining area, as cleaning up after meals sometimes delays them from returning to class on time.
Parents have also praised the program, emphasizing its role in alleviating worries about their children’s meals. One parent noted that the initiative allows them to focus on their work, knowing their children are well-fed and can study without interruption. They thanked GCS for stepping in to support families that struggle to afford school meals.
Richard Shyaka Nayigiziki, Project Manager of GCS Rwanda, expressed satisfaction with the program’s impact. He explained that since its launch three years ago, the initiative has contributed to improved academic performance and a significant reduction in school dropouts. GCS has been working with the Samsung Dream Scholarship Foundation to support children from underprivileged families, enabling them to stay in school and thrive academically.
Aurea Umurerwa Gakuba, Social Welfare Officer for Nyarubaka Sector, commended GCS for its role in increasing school attendance and enhancing the quality of education. She noted that the number of students attending school has risen since the program began and that the dropout rate has decreased significantly. Gakuba expressed gratitude for GCS’s efforts to assist families unable to afford midday meals for their children.
GCS Rwanda began its operations in 2009 and has been active in Rwanda for 16 years. While it engages in various activities, its primary focus is on promoting education.
