Christmas is internationally celebrated on December 25 every year, as it is the day that the birth of Jesus Christ is commemorated. A number of people rejoice on that day in various ways, through charity activities, repentance, visiting relatives to share meals and fun, attending church services, among other ways. Education Times Joan Mbabazi, had a chat with a cross-section of students on what their favourite Christmas was and why?
Mary Kellen Irakoze, Queen of Peace School, Rwamagana My favourite Christmas was in 2017. Our family travelled to Kenya, there was so much to visit, the rivers, malls, and we did lots of shopping, swimming, and met new friends. It was my first time to leave Rwanda.
Honore Niyitegeka, Solid Foundation School, Nyarugenge The fact that I stayed awake as I waited for the birth of Jesus in 2018, just made it the best Christmas. Although I always wanted it, it was impossible to fight sleep but, thank God, this time around I managed to stay awake. The Christmas hymns played on television and radio just ushered me into the Christmas mood. My family and I also went for Christmas carols at church.
Camilla Cyuzuzo, Little Bears Montessori School, Kigali My favourite Christmas ever was in 2017 when I was nine years old. What made it special is that my parents invited over 40 guests who came with their children. As kids, we played a lot of outdoor games, while adults were in the sitting room, catching up. There were lots of drinks and eats, and most of all, the cake. On top of that, we also had a Christmas talent show where we acted, sang, danced and shared gifts. Christmas is fun with many friends and family around. What a moment to reminisce!
Dylan Gakire Kanyabugoyi, Lycee de Kigali Having all my family members gathered together was priceless. My best Christmas was in 2013 because I enjoyed seeing all of us in good health and appreciating God for how far he had brought us. Little did I know that it was the last Christmas I would spend with my father. Unfortunately, he died a year later. But all in all, I thank God for having given us a great time when my father was still alive.
Bernice Kamikazi, Maranyundo Girls School 2017 was my favourite Christmas. My family gathered at my uncle’s home where each one had to write their names on a piece of paper, folded the papers and every one of us was able to pick a name secretly without alerting the person they had picked. We had to give gifts to the people we chose. It was a fun activity.
Anita Kirabo Mutesi, Fawe Girls School, Kigali My best Christmas was in 2015 when my family and two others came together after a long time. We visited Bambino Super City in Kabuga and enjoyed the roller coasters and airplanes. The moment was lightened up with food. We were celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, and had enough time to bond amongst our families.
Levis Minega, Good Foundation School, Remera My mind is still fresh with the memory of Christmas 2018, as I got an opportunity to travel away from Kigali, to the village with my family. Having a great time with my grandmother was wonderful. The love and care that grandparents give makes you think you are still a baby. Every bit about it was worth it. How I wish everyone gets a chance to travel away from the city because village life is fun, away from the noise of cars, and congestion.
Keza Hakalima Agasaro, La Colombiere School, Kigali 2018 is when I had my best Christmas. We went to my uncle’s place where a huge party was organised. Many of our friends were invited. I couldn’t stop eating because everything I set my eyes on was mouth-watering. We ate meat, chicken, and all kinds of food like rice, bananas, and chips, among others, plus drinks like soda, cocktails and many more. There was a dancing competition where I emerged winner and won chocolate that I shared with a homeless child.