Students at FAWE Girls School were on March 30 treated to a special screening of Beyond the Clouds, a film that highlights resilience, the transformative power of education, and the ability of young women to shape their own futures. The event, organised by the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda in partnership with the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, brought together government officials, educators, and students in a moment that blended culture, learning, and inspiration. The film Beyond the Clouds is inspired by the life of Zhang Guimei, a trailblazing Chinese educator who founded the country’s first free public high school for girls in a remote mountainous region. Over 25 years, she enabled more than 2,000 girls to access education and progress to universities and professional careers, overcoming deep-rooted cultural and economic barriers. ALSO READ: The teacher who changed thousands of girls’ lives, and the film that brought her story to Kigali Speaking at the event, Minister of Gender and Family Promotion Consolée Uwimana commended the strong partnership between Rwanda and China, noting that the initiative goes beyond entertainment to shape the ambitions of young people. “We highly appreciate the strong partnership between Rwanda and China, especially in education and youth development. This kind of collaboration inspires our young girls to dream bigger and aim higher. As a ministry, we remain committed to supporting all initiatives that empower our children,” she said. Uwimana also praised FAWE for its continued role in nurturing responsible and capable young women who contribute to national development. She highlighted Rwanda’s global leadership in gender equality—particularly its world-leading representation of women in parliament—while acknowledging persistent challenges, including low female enrollment in technical and vocational education. “We encourage you to seize these opportunities and work hard in your studies. You are the future of this country—tomorrow’s leaders and the parents who will raise the next generation,” she added. The Ambassador of China to Rwanda, Gao Wenqi, echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the importance of education and shared values between the two nations in promoting gender equality. Drawing from Zhang Guimei’s story, he urged students not to be defined by barriers such as poverty, bias, or self-doubt. “Education is the greatest power a young woman can possess. It is the key that unlocks doors you cannot yet see. When you stay in school, you are telling the world that your dreams matter,” Wenqi said. Referencing Xi Jinping, he added that China remains committed to fostering an environment that supports women’s growth and development, and will continue to support similar initiatives in Rwanda, including partnerships with schools. He also encouraged students to support one another, noting that success is often built collectively. “No mountain is too high when you climb it together. You are all mountains in the making,” he said. For many students at FAWE Girls School, the film struck a personal chord. Gisele Agasaro, one of the students who followed the screening, said the story of Beyond the Clouds made her reflect on her own ambitions and the importance of perseverance. “The movie showed me that no matter where you come from, you can achieve great things if you stay focused on your education. Seeing how those girls fought for their chance to study inspired me to work harder and believe more in my dreams,” Agasaro said. The event concluded with a cultural exchange, as students from FAWE Girls School presented the minister and the ambassador with artistic pieces showcasing traditional Rwandan cultural objects, symbolising appreciation, and friendship.
