Kigali, 03 June 2023: Minister of State in charge of Primary and Secondary Education Hon. Gaspard Twagirayezu officiated the closing event of the second National Annual Writing Competition in which the best 48 winners were awarded.

Organized by Kigali Public Library and partners, the second Annual Writing Competition engaged both primary and secondary schools (public and private) schools in Rwanda to enhance their reading and writing skills among Rwandan students while raising awareness about different issues faced by our society.

Each year, students are given a specific topic to write about, to encourage the next generation of storytellers and this year’s theme focused on mental health, to raise awareness of mental health, particularly in schools, and eliminate its associated stigma.

About 1,274 students from lower primary and secondary schools participated in the competition, demonstrating their prowess in languages such as Kinyarwanda, French, English, and Sign language. The competition provided a platform to promote inclusive reading and writing practices.

While addressing participants at the closing event of Annual Writing Competition, Hon. Gaspard Twagirayezu congratulated the winners and appreciated Kigali Public Library and other Education stakeholders for actively being involved and engaged in reinforcing reading and creative writing skills.

Gaspad Twagirayezu said: " I am particularly thankful for the winners of this competition in all categories ‘’ English, Kinyarwanda, French, and Sign languages. You are a true sign of Ministry ‘s engagement and commitment to Foundational learning skills."

Hon. Gaspard Twagirayezu, Minister of State in charge of Primary and Secondary Education

"As you know, reading and writing skills are important skills needed to engage us in learning process. The process looks like fascination, inspiration and eagerness but also creative and connecting to new learning opportunity." Hon. Twagirayezu added.

The annual competition, which was launched in 2021, seeks to develop the passion in writing among young people in public and private schools, especially in lower, upper primary and secondary. Students participated in the different categories and this year’s best performers were awarded Laptops, Tablets, Smartphones, Bicycles, Books, and more. By participating in this competition, Rwandan students can become published authors and promote inclusive reading and writing practices among their peers.