Rwanda Launches RISE Programme to Give School Dropouts a Second Chance at Secondary Education

The Rwandan government has introduced a new accelerated education programme aimed at young people and adults who dropped out of secondary school years ago, offering them a pathway back into formal learning.

The initiative, known as Resilience in Secondary Education (RISE), was launched by the Ministry of Education (MINEDUC) to support out-of-school youth who exited secondary education at Senior Four, Five, or Six. Successful participants will earn an A2-equivalent secondary school certificate, opening doors to employment and further education.

The programme forms part of Rwanda’s broader strategy to reduce school dropout rates and expand inclusive access to education for vulnerable populations.

Who Can Apply?

RISE is designed for individuals aged 18 to 35 who left secondary school at least three years ago. This includes learners who attempted but did not pass the national secondary school leaving examinations.

Registration is done at sector offices in applicants’ places of residence. Applications opened on December 22, 2025, and close on December 31, 2025.

How Long Will the Programme Take?

Participants will complete the programme within six months to one year, depending on their learning pace and academic background.

What Will Learners Study?

The RISE curriculum follows an accelerated and competency-based learning model aligned with Rwanda’s national secondary education standards. Courses will focus on high-impact subjects such as Mathematics, humanities, English, and digital skills, with both academic and skills-oriented pathways available.

Final subject combinations will be determined based on learners’ previous schooling and national curriculum guidelines, in collaboration with the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB).

A Different Learning Model

Unlike the traditional three-year secondary school cycle, RISE compresses learning through:

Diagnostic assessments

Condensed curricula focused on core competencies

Extended learning hours

Blended and flexible learning approaches

Continuous assessment and targeted academic support

According to MINEDUC, this structure enables motivated learners to complete secondary education in a significantly shorter time frame.

Is the Programme Free?

Yes. RISE is fully subsidised, with no tuition fees, to ensure accessibility for disadvantaged and out-of-school youth.

Pilot Districts Announced

The programme will initially roll out in 10 pilot districts:
Nyanza, Ruhango, Muhanga, Kamonyi, Rulindo, Gakenke, Gicumbi, Musanze, Burera, and Nyabihu.

These districts were selected due to high numbers of out-of-school youth and the availability of suitable education infrastructure. Lessons from the pilot phase will guide nationwide expansion.

Why the Three-Year Gap Requirement?

MINEDUC explained that the programme prioritises learners who have been out of school for at least three years because they face the greatest challenges returning to formal education. The requirement also prevents the programme from encouraging currently enrolled students to drop out.

Flexible Learning Centres

Classes will be held at designated RISE learning centres, some hosted within existing schools but operating under flexible schedules. The centres are designed to support learners with additional responsibilities, including young parents, persons with disabilities, and those needing adaptable learning arrangements.

Teachers Needed

The Ministry of Education has also called on young graduates aged 21 to 35 with Bachelor’s degrees in education-related fields to apply as volunteer teachers. Interested candidates must register with Education Officers at their sector offices by December 31, 2025.

Partners Behind the Programme

RISE is being implemented through a multi-stakeholder partnership involving MINEDUC, the Mastercard Foundation, Carnegie Mellon University, UNICEF Rwanda, Imbuto Foundation, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), YWCA Rwanda, and DOT Rwanda.