Background

Following the Rwandan genocide and war in 1994 that claimed the lives of innocent Tutsis and moderate Hutus, Rwandan society continues to strive towards building a better future. Due to poverty and limited educational opportunities, rural populations are severely manipulated and affected by conflict and post-conflict situations. Sanejo believes that the most effective way to build a prosperous and productive society is to empower children and youth through education; ensuring that children in both rural and urban areas have a chance to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills to improve their lives.

Sanejo’s pilot project will work in conjunction with the Ntenyo School and surrounding community in order to upgrade a community school that currently enrolls over seven hundred children. The Ntenyo School project reflects the vision of David Mwambari’s grandfather who worked hard to provide education for future generations. Unfortunately, his life was cut short during the genocide before he could complete this dream. Now, the enthusiastic community and Sanejo desire to continue the tasks he began. Sanejo in partnership with Y-GAP and the Ntenyo community are working to complete and equip the school, hold health awareness workshops and provide English language skills to both teachers and students.

Phase 1

Phase One of the Ntenyo School Project will consist of the reconstruction and expansion of the classrooms, the library, the lavatories, and the provision of school materials (i.e. text books, desks) to ensure that the school can provide basic resources and educational materials for all the students.

Sanejo recognizes that children who are healthy and come from productive households will be more successful in school. Therefore, Phase One during the building reconstruction will include healthcare workshops and a week-long medical clinic for the local community. We will partner with doctors, nurses, and medical students from different countries to assist with the medical camp in the community of Ruhango where the school is located. We will, additionally, work in partnership with local volunteers and laborers who will have the opportunity to learn from architects, professional builders, doctors and nurses who are donating their time to our project.

Phase 2

Phase Two of our project will focus on both short-term and long-term teacher training courses and English classes provided by Sanejo volunteers. Upon arrival, Sanejo volunteers will participate in an intensive orientation session. A discussion at the end of their service will provide feedback on their project experience.

Check out the Volunteer page for more information on volunteer opportunities and how to get involved with Sanejo!