The exams were launched at Groupe SCholaire Gisozi, located in Gasabo District, where 465 candidates, including 239 boys and 226 girls, are expected to sit the exams.
Nationwide, 202,999 students, comprising 91,189 boys and 111,810 girls, will sit the exams at 1,118 sites across the country, concluding on July 10, 2024.
The exams cover five subjects: Mathematics, Kinyarwanda, English, Science and Elementary Technology (SET), and General Knowledge and Religion.
On the first day, candidates sit for two exams, followed by two more the next day, and end with one exam on the final day.
In his remarks, Twagirayezu noted that unlike previous years where education was affected by COVID-19, this year had no significant issues, and students are well-prepared and expected to perform well.
'Exams are a way to assess the students' understanding. We will continue to review the outcomes, correct what didn't go well, and reinforce what did,' he said.
In addition to ensuring children attend exams on time, the Minister emphasized the crucial role of parents in supporting their children's education, working alongside teachers to foster learning, as educating the nation requires collective effort.
'When it comes to exams, which is an annual event, we ask parents to help their children review their lessons, ensure they get enough rest, and arrive at the exam sites on time,' he said.
In his message to the students, Twagirayezu encouraged them to stay calm and perform well, assuring them that the exams were prepared by their teachers, so they should not be fearful.
Regarding students with disabilities, stated that provisions were made according to their needs, including large print materials, readers, and extended time for completion, with a team ready to provide assistance wherever necessary.
As Twagirayezu launched the exams at G.S Gisozi, the State Secretary in MINEDUC, Irere Claudette, launched them at Groupe Scholaire Institute Filip Simaldone in Nyarugenge District.
Officials from various institutions under the Ministry of Education also inaugurated the exams in different parts of the country.
Dr. Bahati Bernard, the Head of the National Examinations and School Inspection Authority (NESA), was in Nyaruguru District at Groupe Scholaire Muhambara.
Rwanda TVET Board (RTB) Director General, Eng. Paul Umukunzi, was at Groupe Scholaire Rusongati in Rubavu, and the Director General in charge of Education Policy and Analysis in the Ministry of Education, Rose Baguma, launched the exams at Groupe Scholaire Mayange in Bugesera District.
Rwanda Education Board Director, Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana, was at Groupe Scholaire Nyakarenzo in Rusizi District, while the Head of the Quality Assurance Department in NESA, Mr Kavutse Vianney Augustine, inaugurated the exams at Groupe Scholaire Musenyi in Nyagatare District
Last year, MINEDUC reported that girls had a higher pass rate compared to boys. Out of 201,679 students who sat the exams, 91.09% passed, with girls making up 55.29% of the pass rate and boys 44.71%.
Sam K Nkurunziza
