The team at Aspire Academy in the heart of the Eastern Province in Rwanda firmly believe that education holds the key to unlocking limitless potential. Their mission is to uplift communities, break the cycle of poverty, and create a brighter future for the children of Bugesera District.
This year, the Commonwealth Day theme of ‘Unlocking opportunities for a prosperous Commonwealth’ resonated so deeply, they dedicated a school day to learn about the Commonwealth. They shared some of their highlights from the day.
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The children, all younger than eight years old, attending the primary school were introduced to the 56 member countries of the Commonwealth by colouring in their respective flags and learning where to find these places on a world map. New words like ‘Canada’ led to geography lessons and an understanding that Canada is a country like regional neighbour Kenya. Children ‘visited’ England, Australia, India, Rwanda and Jamaica.
Each learner received a Commonwealth Passport for the day. Every time they visited a country, they were asked to show their passport like true travellers and received a visa on arrival and had their passport stamped.
Fiona Jones is a returning volunteer at the school. She said:
“I came here in 2024 and enjoyed it so much, I have come back a second time. It’s been another fantastic experience. I just happened to be here as we were celebrating Commonwealth Day.
“The first thing was to make them understand what the Commonwealth means, which a being part of one large family around the world. Something that helps the whole world with sports, decisions, education and everything else.”
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As one young man from the Aspire Academy, says: “Commonwealth means a group of countries working together.”
One of the highlights of the day was learning about reggae music from Jamaica, but the ultimate favourite was learning about the fantastical kangaroo with a pouch for a belly.
Next year they may travel to all 56 Commonwealth countries!
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