Academic competitions are emerging as powerful tools to strengthen Rwanda’s education system by building critical thinking, creativity, and confidence among learners.

The recently concluded Shenmo Africa Cup Abacus Mental Math Olympiad in Kigali illustrated how such platforms can complement classroom instruction and nurture globally competitive talent.

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The event brought together over 350 children from 30 African countries, including outstanding Rwandan participants who demonstrated exceptional mental agility.

Their success was not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the country’s progress in promoting innovative learning methods, such as the abacus technique, which sharpens focus, memory, and analytical skills.

Competitions of this nature move learning beyond rote memorization. They test how students apply knowledge, work under pressure, and think independently, qualities central to Rwanda’s Competence-Based Curriculum.

By integrating similar activities across schools, educators can cultivate problem-solving abilities that are essential for a modern workforce.

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Exposure to regional and international contests also broadens students’ perspectives and instills a sense of confidence and curiosity. It reinforces the idea that Rwandan learners can excel on the global stage if given the right opportunities and support.

As Minister of State Claudette Irere observed, watching children apply their learning in a competitive yet enjoyable setting demonstrates how such experiences build concentration and mental agility.

Expanding similar initiatives in mathematics, science, and languages would further enrich Rwanda’s education reforms.

Encouraging academic competitions is, therefore, more than celebrating winners. It is about preparing a generation of thinkers capable of addressing real-world challenges with creativity and discipline.

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By making intellectual challenge a core part of learning, the government can continue building an education system that not only imparts knowledge but also inspires innovation and excellence.