USAID Rwanda

The Government of Rwanda’s Vision 2020 and Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy lay out ambitious plans to transform Rwanda into a knowledge-based economy by building a skilled workforce that is able to compete both regionally and internationally. Education is key to this transformation, and Rwanda has achieved remarkable success in increasing access to education, with primary school net enrollment standing at 97 percent. USAID supports the Government of Rwanda to improve early-grade reading outcomes in Kinyarwanda. To support the acquisition of this foundational skill, USAID works in partnership with the Rwanda Education Board to enhance investments in teacher training, teaching and learning materials, and assessment to ensure that all children learn to read within their first few years of schooling.

Also, USAID works to meet the needs of youth who struggle to find stable employment. Young Rwandan job seekers in both rural and urban settings are challenged by poverty, social instability, and lack of financial and social capital, as well as limited skills and low levels of education. As a result of these challenges, 65 percent of youth ages 14-35 are underemployed.

Through its assistance in basic education and youth/workforce development, the U.S. Government is supporting the Government of Rwanda in its efforts to increase opportunities for Rwandan children and youth to succeed in schooling and the workplace.