We had an incredible party last week at Hope Haven Rwanda. Rising Senior One students (7th graders) and their parents were invited to campus for a three-hour-long party celebrating their accomplishments this summer.
The joy shared at this event was indescribable! The afternoon was filled with great food, performances, music, speeches, medals, trophies, certificates and a glorious dance party at the end.
The biggest celebration of the day was because, once again, ALL of our Hope Haven students placed in Division One! This means that every single Hope Haven Secondary School student (7-9th grades this year) ranks in the top 5% of the entire nation of Rwanda!
Here are some statistics from this year’s standardized national examination to help paint a fuller picture:
For the 2021 Rwanda Primary Leaving Examination, 251,906 students throughout Rwanda were tested (136,830 males and 115,076 females). Sadly, 17.5% (44,176 pupils) completely failed the examination. They will not be allowed to advance to 7th grade in any school in Rwanda.
The remaining 82.5% passed as follows:
5.7% passed in Division 1. This equals 14,313 pupils throughout Rwanda. 100% of our Hope Haven students scored in this category. They will continue to have access to the best schools in the nation.
21.5% (54,214 pupils) passed in Division 2. This is also considered a “good” score and these students should do well in secondary school.
30.1% (75,817 pupils) passed in Division 3.
25.2% (63,326 pupils) passed in Division 4.
Finally, as part of our celebration, we awarded the top two scorers, Alice Mukatantwali (female) and Fulgence Turayizeye (male), free tuition for the entire 2021-2022 academic year! Their parents were overwhelmed with gratitude as they joined their children near the stage to receive these incredible scholarships.
The diligent work of all these students is already helping their families and this is just the beginning. These outstanding scholars will help change the lives of their families as they continue to grow into the leaders God has called them to be!
During my speech, I shared the go-to Scripture for celebrations like this. 2 Timothy 2:15 reads, “Study to show yourself approved, a worker that does not need to be ashamed.” I am very proud of our faculty, especially Fred Karangwa, our Headmaster, and each one of our students this year—they are definitely not ashamed of their studious work! To God be the glory—great things He has done.
Is there a way that you can be more studious? 2 Timothy 2:15 is specifically referring to study as a tool to deepen our understanding and faith. How much are you investing in life-long learning—in your faith, personal and professional life?