On Monday, October 20, 2025, at Lycée de Kigali, Minister of Education, Minister Joseph Nsengimanatogether with his counterpart from Sports Ministery, Nelly Mukazayire, The State Minister Rwego NGARAMBEfrom Ministry of Sports and The Deputy Mayor of the City of Kigali in charge of Economic Development and Social Welfare, Urujeni Martine launched the 2025–2026 School Sports Activities.(Inter-school sports competitions 2025-2026)

The Minister of Education, Dr. Joseph Nsengimana, has emphasized the importance of combining education with sports, saying the two sectors complement each other rather than compete.

Speaking during the joint event organized by the Ministries of Sports and Education, Dr. Nsengimana said the collaboration aims to remind young people that academic excellence and sports development can go hand in hand.

“The reason the Ministry of Sports and the Ministry of Education came together today is to emphasize that these two areas are not in competition. You can study and also engage in sports—it is important to do both,” he said.

He added that the ministries have agreed to closely work with learners and institutions to promote this balance. “This year, we decided to come and meet you directly because we value this cause and are ready to support you,” he noted.

The Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, has called for renewed commitment to developing young sports talent across Rwanda.

Speaking during a recent gathering, Minister Mukazayire emphasized that nurturing talent is essential to the country’s growth and identity. “We are here today to make a pledge—to put in greater effort in promoting talent, because it is a cornerstone of development,” she said.

She highlighted the government’s dedication to working closely with athletes to help them access the necessary resources, training spaces, and competitive opportunities. “When you compete, you sharpen your abilities. Let today mark our joint commitment: you will invest your energy in your talents, and we will provide the support and equipment you need,” she added.

Minister Mukazayire further noted that sports represent national identity and pride. “When your talents are used effectively and you become champions, the pride belongs to you, your families, and the entire country,” she said, reaffirming the Ministry’s support for all aspiring athletes.

The Deputy Mayor of the City of Kigali in charge of Economic Development and Social Welfare, Urujeni Martine, reminded students that embracing sports is a pathway to discipline and unity.

She noted that sports play an essential role not only in building character but also in improving academic performance.

“Sports help you develop discipline,” she said. “They also support your learning because when you play, your mind relaxes, allowing you to study with better focus. Sports also promote friendship and teamwork, as playing together strengthens unity.”

Students from Lycée de Kigali also shared how sports contribute to their academic and personal development.

Gasaro Sabine, a Senior 6 student, emphasized that balancing studies with physical activity is essential. “Not doing sports while studying is like creating problems for yourself,” she said. “When you do sports, it helps you relax and stay healthy. It even improves your memory and helps you learn faster—sport is life.”

Her schoolmate, Nshizirungu Ivan, also in Senior 6, echoed similar views, noting that sports teach teamwork and discipline. “I find sports very important because they help me interact with others and follow instructions. This habit of paying attention to directions in sports helps me do the same in class,” he explained.

The launch of the 2025–2026 school sports season not only marks the beginning of competitive inter-school events but also reinforces Rwanda’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded, disciplined, and talented youth. Through partnerships between education and sports, the nation continues to shape future leaders who are strong in both mind and body.