One of Wellspring’s key goals from its inception was to develop the quality of education in Rwandan schools through the empowerment of educators. Our unique approach to addressing the needs of educators in the Rwandan context developed into our signature School Development Program (SDP), which not only focuses on equipping teachers, but leaders, parents, and wider communities too.

Following the success of a small-scale pilot of our SDP approach with teachers, first in 3 privately-run schools and then in 7 public schools, the Rwandan government granted Wellspring the incredible privilege of implementing this approach in all 48 public schools of the Gasabo District. Our work continues there today, and now impacts 59 schools, over 103,400 students, 1,772 teachers, as well as leaders, parents, and wider communities.

Gasabo’s schools are based in a variety of locations, both urban and rural, and vary in size from 523 students to 3625 students. Large class size is only one of the many challenges facing schools in Gasabo. Yet with Wellspring’s support, barriers are being broken down, and these schools are experiencing real and lasting transformation that allows students to live up to their God-given potential.

Today, our work in Gasabo is focused on continuing the journey towards sustainability, and on ensuring that the change sparked in each school will continue for generations to come. We are working to see structures strengthened, curriculum effectively implemented, parents actively engaged, leaders committed to effective teaching and learning, and model schools successfully sharing good practices with others. Now that these tangible goals are within reach, we believe not only that these Gasabo schools will be set up for success in the future, but that Gasabo will become a learning hub and example for other districts across Rwanda.