“Our education level has increased generally but we are not yet at the level we want to be judging from what we see elsewhere,” he said.

Kagame’s comments underscored the collective nature of the effort required to elevate the education system.
“By swearing in, it means you have accepted and are ready to work for your country in this new capacity but this commitment is not solely your responsibility. This oath doesn’t mean that improving the education sector is yours alone. It is a collective responsibility and we are here to work with you and support you all through,” he emphasized.

The President highlighted the role of every Rwandan in this shared endeavor. “It is all our responsibility, the youth, the old; The task of enhancing education involves contributions from all segments of society.”

On September 13, 2024, Joseph Nsengimana was officially sworn in as the new Minister of Education

“Education is one of the most important things that help our country’s development and the Rwandan population in general. The outcomes of a strong education system also positively impact Rwanda’s interactions on the global stage," he emphasized.

Kagame elaborated on the concept of holistic education, which blends local and international perspectives. “Holistic education involves aspects picked from Rwanda as a country and aspects picked from other countries. This approach aims to enrich students’ understanding by incorporating diverse global viewpoints, thus better preparing them to handle various challenges,” he explained.

The Head of State concluded by emphasizing that good education lays a critical foundation for personal and national advancement, noting that good education prepares people to be ready to face all the problems and challenges that they encounter.

Nsengimana was appointed Minister of Education on September 11, 2024, replacing Gaspard Twagirayezu, who became the Director General of the National Space Agency.

He was previously the Director of the Mastercard Foundation, focusing on promoting education for all through technology. Before working with Mastercard, Nsengimana was employed at Intel Corporation, an American technology company.

President Kagame poses for a group photo with other leaders shortly after the swearing in ceremony of Education Minister Joseph Nsengimana

The swearing in ceremony of Joseph Nsengimana was presided over by President Paul Kagame