April is Rwanda’s month of national mourning and as the nation remembers its brokenness and pain through its theme of ‘Hope’, the importance of empowering Head Teachers, Deputies, Teachers and Parents seems even more significant. The future of a nation’s hope depends on what it is building in its schools and children today. Thus as we completed our final Whole School Development workshop there was sense of accomplishment that, in spite of challenges, we were rebuilding the present and future hope of a nation.

Having found the other members of their group during a workshop game, Teacher Trainer Ernest Ntamugabo
(far right) and teachers now discuss the shared characteristics that make them a group.

Watching a cohesive team of skilled and confident Rwandan trainers deliver with calm and ease this sixth workshop on Effective Group Work to our Rwandan Head Teachers, Deputies and Teachers has brought much pride and joy. Thinking back to the more timid beginners who began training twenty-seven months ago it is a testimony to the reward of investing in people. To see those same individuals grow and mature and confidently deliver trainings reminds us where true hope lies. It lies within these empowered individuals serving as a team to empower schools and thus a future generation. It is truly an honour and a privilege to be part of this journey of hope.

Looking out into the training auditorium and witnessing participants who once entered sullen of face and dragging their feet are now entering with smiles of recognition and growing commitment – it is an incredible sight to see. There is almost a sense of ‘coming home’ as we complete this final training with these participants. There is a comfort and calm that characterises this workshop and bears witness to the transformation in participants’ attitudes. The transformation of these attitudes and the skills that are being developed are a testimony to our trainers and to the power of investing in people. Through value and relationship these participants are growing to understand their personal value and the value of their job and its role in society. This transformation is part of rebuilding hope in these individuals and thus the future hope for the next generation in this beautiful nation.

Thus as we come to this final workshop we look back, to remember, so that we can look forward in hope.