Association of Committed Teachers (ACT) Rwanda Chairman Fred Buyinza recently took his first trip to Europe for an international conference on Christian education at Oxford.  Needless to say, he came back with many observations about the differences between Europe and Rwanda and an increased clarity about the important discipleship role of ACT Rwanda within the lives of Rwandan teachers.

When Fred got off the plane, he couldn't believe how fast everyone was moving. Running here and there, everyone seemed to know where they were going, but he did his best to follow signs, made it through immigration and got his bags okay. He was so relieved to find the people there to pick him up and they had even brought coats for him. They were surprised to find that an African had actually come prepared with enough gear - Fred was already wrapped up in a hat, scarf, mittens, and multiple jackets!
Fred couldn't believe how old Oxford was and that it had been taken care of so well and the place was respected. A cobblestone road that had been preserved simply for tourists also impressed him. He laughed with his guide about the fact that this road was 600 years old, and in Rwanda, they are just now making the cobblestone roads - our technology is 600 years behind!!!

Fred enjoyed the conference very much and feels like he gained a lot of insight into the culture of Christian education in Europe, but he was also able to share what is happening in Rwanda in the area of education.  He was sad to see the decline of the church in Europe. How many of the old churches are not used so they are becoming libraries. He was sad to see no young people in the church anymore. He also noted how much the education in Europe seemed to be child-centered and that the children were really empowered.

Fred came back fired about the importance of impacting people’s hearts.  He is event more convinced than ever that teachers don't need materials thrown at them, but they really need to experience a deeper understanding of God if they are to become a better teacher. He feels that many teachers in Rwanda are just teachers because it is their job, not because they understand the value of it. He is excited to work on heart change within ACT members over the rest of this year.