UR donates 2,467 Solar Powered Radio Sets to the poor in remote areas to enhance learning

24-10-2020

Through Transforming Education Systems for Sustainable Futures (TESF) - a United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) funded project- the University of Rwanda has secured funds to procure solar powered radio sets to support children from poor and vulnerable families who have not been able to follow lessons that are currently being broadcast on Radio and TV networks. Currently, 2467 solar powered radios are ready for distribution in identified 7 districts of the country starting 22 October 2020.

The University of Rwanda, as one of the implementing partners of TESF project, has been at the forefront in seeking innovative solutions to enhance remote learning since March 2020 when schools closed due to COVID 19 outbreak. The procurement of these radio sets has been sponsored by TESF Project following the initiative of Dr. Michael R. Tusiime, the TESF Project Co-Investor in Rwanda and Lecturer at the University of Rwanda’s College of Education.

UR has therefore partnered with Rwanda Education Board (REB), Inspire Educate and Empower ( IEE) and district administrations to ensure that the deserving families receive these radio sets. “Seven (7) districts have been identified during a joint meeting with UR, REB and IEE. They are : Kayonza, Kirehe, Gisagara, Nyaruguru, Rutsiro and Rusizi. ‘’ Their selection was based on the fact that they have previously received less or no similar support, ‘’ Dr. Michael R. Tusiime said.

Following the distribution plan as announced by Dr. Tusiime, beneficiaries of Kirehe, Gicumbi, Gisagara and Rusizi districts have to receive their radio sets starting from 22 October 2020, while those of Nyaruguru, Rutsiro and Kayonza will follow from 27 October 2020. The distribution activities will last between three and five days depending on the district size. According to the figures, between 352 and 355 vulnerable families per district will receive this support.

TESF project aims to develop a sustainable network of researchers in 7 partner countries including Rwanda ; synthesize and disseminate existing and emerging knowledge and co-produce the evidence and arguments urgently needed to transform education and training systems to drivers of Sustainable Development..

Story by

NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac
Public Relations and Community Engagement Officer
University of Rwanda’s College of Education