The Ministry of Education on Friday, June 12 launched a new initiative aimed at strengthening sports development in schools across Rwanda.

The initiative called Panda Sports Pack is supported by the China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD) and the Alibaba Goods for Good Philanthropy Platform.

It was officially launched at GS Camp Kanombe in Kicukiro District by the Minister of State for Education, Claudette Irere and the Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Gao Wenqi.

The minister and the ambassador joined students on the playground, taking part in friendly football and volleyball matches at GS Camp Kanombe, highlighting the importance of sports in promoting teamwork, healthy lifestyles and holistic learning.

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Up to 850 Panda Sports Packs containing essential sports and recreational materials will be distributed to 114 schools in nine districts, creating more opportunities for learners to participate in sports and physical activities.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Irere said the initiative represents more than the distribution of sports equipment, describing it as an investment in the holistic development of learners.

"Too often, sports and academics are viewed as competing priorities. They are not. Sports do not take away from learning; they prepare learners to learn better," she said.

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According to the minister, physically active learners are often more focused, confident and resilient as sports activities strengthen concentration, improve well-being and cultivate the determination needed to succeed both in the classroom and in life.

"As the Ministry of Education, we believe education is about developing a wholesome child," Irere said.

"Academic achievement matters, but so do character, teamwork, leadership, discipline and perseverance. These are qualities that sports nurture every day. That is why sports in schools remain an important pillar of Rwanda&039;s education system."

Irere noted that the government continues to invest in and promote sports, emphasizing that schools are the best place to introduce children to sporting activities from an early age.

"Besides physical activity, sports teach values and life skills. We want to reinforce the message that participating in sports does not hamper studying but rather complements it," she said.

She expressed confidence that the new initiative will increase participation in sports while promoting physical fitness and values such as teamwork, discipline, inclusion and respect.

"Let us reaffirm that a healthy body supports a healthy mind," she said.

Selection of beneficiary schools

Irere explained that beneficiary schools were selected based on the availability of at least basic sports facilities such as playing grounds and active participation in sports activities.

However, she said the goal is to expand the programme to schools across the country.

She also urged schools, students and management committees to ensure proper use and maintenance of the materials.

The minister called on district authorities, school leaders, teachers and partners to ensure the resources are fully utilized.

With the holiday season approaching, Irere encouraged schools to make the equipment accessible to learners, noting that students have more time to engage in sports during the break while also taking responsibility for caring for the materials.

For schools without sports infrastructure, she encouraged collaboration with neighbouring schools or the use of playgrounds developed by sectors and districts.

Rwanda-China partnership

Irere commended the China Foundation for Rural Development, the Alibaba Goods for Good Philanthropy Platform and other partners for supporting the initiative.

"This collaboration demonstrates how international cooperation can create meaningful impact. We thank all our partners for their generosity, commitment and collaboration," she said.

She noted that Rwanda's partnership with China extends beyond sports, with more than 30 Rwandan students travelling to China every year to pursue studies in different fields.

The collaboration also includes Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), where Chinese companies contribute equipment, raw materials and instructors to support skills development.

The Chinese ambassador described Rwanda as a strategic partner and close friend, saying it was a pleasure to participate in the launch.

"We encourage more representatives from Chinese businesses to carry out charitable activities that give back to local communities and strengthen interactions with the people," he said.

According to Gao, sports serve as a bridge between Rwanda and China by strengthening people-to-people ties.

"As a friend, we want you to know that we stand ready to offer whatever support we can in areas where there is need, including education, health and youth development," he said.

He added that he hopes to expand the initiative and bring more footballs and sports equipment to many students.

"I look forward to a future where we cheer for each other's victories. My dream is to see more footballs accessible to more Rwandan boys and girls, and I will continue working on projects that make this possible," Gao said.