In Rwanda, civic literacy—or civic education—refers to the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for individuals to participate effectively in civic and democratic processes.
Following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, this program has played a pivotal role in fostering unity, reconciliation, and a sense of national identity. Targeted at young people who have completed their secondary studies and are awaiting their results, civic education is widely regarded as a transformative experience.
Many participants have shared the profound benefits they’ve gained from it.
Commonly referred to as “Urugerero,” civic education is considered a cornerstone in building national unity. It shapes the identity and patriotic attitudes of young Rwandans, instilling a deep sense of belonging and responsibility. The program emphasizes shared values, history, and traditions, fostering a strong national identity. It also preserves Rwanda’s cultural heritage by teaching traditional arts, music, dance, and language, ensuring that these cultural legacies are passed on to future generations.
Rwandan youth at Kanombe Sector Office headquarters, as they were being given direction on the first day of Urugerero (Civic education) in 2021.
Jean Marie Vianney Rukundo, a National Youth Council Coordinator in Rubirizi Cell and a Master’s student in Finance at the University of Rwanda (UR), highlighted the merits of civic education for secondary school graduates.
Jean Marie Vianney Rukundo, National Youth Council Coordinator at Rubirizi cell and a Master’s student in Finance at the University of Rwanda (UR).
“Participating in civic education is essential because it teaches us to love our country and work for it with purpose. We also learn the values and cultural norms of Rwanda, which guide us in becoming responsible citizens,” he explained.
Civic education also provides a platform for open dialogue and critical thinking about Rwanda’s history. By encouraging citizens to learn from the past, it helps prevent future atrocities. The program stresses shared values and responsibilities, fostering reconciliation and healing among different ethnic groups. Moreover, it equips young people with the knowledge and skills needed to actively participate in their communities and contribute to the nation’s development.
Kellen Mutoni, a private saleswoman who participated in the 2021 Urugerero program at the Kanombe Sector office, echoed these sentiments. She emphasized the importance of civic education for secondary school graduates.
Kellen Mutoni, private saleswoman and a former partaker of 2021 Urugerero program at Kanombe Office Headquarters.
“Civic education opens people’s minds. We learn about our country’s history, its struggles, its development journey, and its challenges. We also study ‘Ndi Umunyarwanda,’ an initiative that promotes unity, reconciliation, and a collective identity. Through this program, we become true Rwandans, ready to explain our nation’s values to future generations,” she said.
Civic education also plays a crucial role in creating a more inclusive society. By fostering a sense of shared citizenship, promoting tolerance and respect, and encouraging active participation, it helps build a more just and equitable world. The program instills the values of human rights and equality, emphasizing that everyone deserves respect and dignity regardless of ethnicity, gender, or social status. This approach helps break down stereotypes and prejudices that can lead to exclusion.
Rwandan youth taking part in Urugerero (Civic Education) in 2023 as they were building a house for a necessitous citizen in Kayonza district.
Jimmy Agaba, a student at Kepler College studying Operations and Logistics, spoke about the role of civic education in integrating young people into society.
Jimmy Agaba, a Kepler College Student in Operations and Logistics in Rwanda.
“Civic education helps secondary school graduates find their place in society by connecting them with diverse groups of people. It also teaches them about the country’s morals and values, which are central to the program’s discussions,” he said.
In conclusion, civic education does more than teach Rwandan history and cultural values. It prepares young people to become responsible citizens who fulfill their duties in alignment with Rwandan cultural values and contribute to the nation’s development. By equipping the youth with the tools to understand their past, engage with their present, and shape their future, civic education ensures that Rwanda continues to move forward as a united and progressive nation.
