On April 2, 2025, the Ministry of Education through Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB) organized a two-day event of Rwanda’s first National Conference on Autism themed, “Embracing Neurodiversity: Strength in Learning and Growth.”

The conference featured opening remarks from Mrs. Rose Baguma, Head of Education Policy Department at the Ministry of Education, the guest of honor on behalf of the Minister of Education. Mrs. Baguma began by acknowledging significant steps that have been made towards creating inclusive environments for students with autism to help them achieve academic success.

“We recognize the importance of policies and programs that have been implemented to strengthen the support of children with autism. It is also our responsibility to ensure that every student- regardless of their abilities- has access to quality education that meets their needs and helps them thrive.” Mrs Baguma said.

She also made a call to action that urges individuals, communities and institutions to keep on raising awareness in order to tackle misconceptions surrounding autism. “This day underscores a crucial reminder to our collective responsibility to promote inclusivity, combat stigma and enhance early diagnosis and interventions.”

Mrs. Rose Baguma had to once again remind the participants of the event that regardless of their neurodiversity, it can be ensured that each child reach their full potential.

Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana, Director General of Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB) delivered welcoming remarks for the ceremony and began by thanking all participants including Vice-Mayors in charge of social affairs from all 30 districts. “It is with great honour and gratitude that I welcome you to this important event, the first-ever National Conference on Autism.

I take this opportunity to recognize your contribution and instrumental role in strengthening Rwanda’s education system, especially in basic education and commitment to advancing inclusive education.” Dr. Nelson said.

“Your presence is a testament to a shared vision of ensuring that every learner- regardless of their disabilities or circumstances, is given an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the society.” DG REB continued. 

Dr. Nelson also emphasized on how education is a cornerstone that ensures people with disability can fully develop their human potential. “Inclusive education is not just about access but also mindset, commitment and actions. It is about ensuring that every child regardless of their disabilities can learn in an environment that supports and values the all.” 

Remarking on the interventions on Autism, Dr. Flora Mutezigaju, Deputy Director General of REB insisted that emphasis on the importance of the principles of inclusivity and flexibility with in the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) to empower learners of all abilities, hence shaping a more equitable education.

Among other keynote speakers were Professor Evariste Karangwa, former head of the School of Inclusive and Special Needs Education (SISNE) at the University of Rwanda- College of Education (UR-CE). Prof. Karangwa highlighted how challenging it becomes for families with autistic children but insisted on how appropriate education environment and teaching resources can lead to a positive change.

“A forum like this is eye opening for many people, not only in the education sector but also an appropriate step towards solving issues and problems surrounding autism. Building enabling services, resources, putting in place and enabling procedures and plans is what can lead to this transformation.” Said Professor Karangwa.

Panel sessions held during this meeting to reflected on a variety of testimonies and experiences by parents who shared successful stories on the education of learners with autism. 

Larissa Umutoni, head of Rwanda Parents Initiative on Autism (RPIA) who also has a child living with autism stated that if a child with autism is cared for and nurtured at an early stage, his\her talent and abilities can shine and contribute to the society. Participants also explored inspiring exhibitions that showcased innovation and autism care while children with autism showcased their talents such as using the piano.

On the second day of the conference, delegations who attended this conference had an opportunity to visit special needs schools such as Silver Bells, HVP Gikondo and GS Rose Mystica located in Kigali City and Kamonyi districts respectively. These schools provide abilities and programs that provide foundation for autistic learners to explore and grow their talents and abilities in sports, music and entertainment in general hence helping them achieve their academic success.

Closing the conference on behalf of the Minister of Education, DG REB, Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana reminded participants that “disability is not inability.”

This first ever National Conference on Autism held in Rwanda, took place on the same day of World Autism Awareness Day.

According to recent data by the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 36 children have been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and it is nearly four times more common among boys than girls. This conference was organized by Ministry of Education through Rwanda Basic Education Board in partnership with the National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), Rwanda Parents Initiative on Autism (RPIA), Rwanda TVET Board (RTB), National Examination and School Inspection Authority (NESA) and other key partners.