Twenty-three caregivers from Imbuto Foundation-supported Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers successfully completed training in Early Childhood Development and Family (ECD&F), equipping them with the skills needed to nurture children during their most formative years.
The certification ceremony that took place on On March 25, was presided over by Mount Kigali University founder Prof. Simon Gicharu founder of Mount Kigali University, alongside Imbuto Foundation Director General Elodie Shami. The training is part of a broader effort to improve the quality of care and education for young children in Rwanda.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Gicharu emphasized the importance of building strong foundations in early childhood, noting that the future of any nation depends on how well it invests in its youngest generation. He reaffirmed the university’s dedication to supporting continuous professional development for caregivers and educators, highlighting that solving societal challenges requires empowering people with the right skills and mindset.
“As we reflect on our progress, one key issue stands out,” he said. “The challenge is not the presence of problems, but our ability to effectively solve them. We must focus on building solutions and equipping individuals with the capacity to address real-world challenges.”
He further stressed the importance of mission-driven work, collaboration, and innovation in shaping sustainable development, applauding caregivers for their dedication to community service and their lasting impact on families across the country.
Imbuto Foundation Director General, Elodie Shami expressed deep appreciation for the partnership, describing it as transformative and community-centered. She highlighted the critical importance of the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, noting that this period lays the foundation for future health, learning, and productivity.
“Caregivers are at the frontline of this work,” she said. “Their role cannot be overstated. They are central to ensuring that children receive not only education, but also proper care, nutrition, and support.”
She added that investing in Early Childhood Development aligns closely with Rwanda’s national vision for long-term growth, including Vision 2050, which prioritizes human capital development and the creation of a knowledge-based economy.
Mount Kigali University Vice Chancellor, Dr Martin Kimemia, also commended the graduates, describing the occasion as both a celebration of achievement and a step forward in building resilient communities.
“Today, we celebrate not only your success but also the future you are helping to shape,” he said. “The early years of a child’s life are critical, and through your training, you are now better prepared to guide and support the next generation.”
During the event, Mount Kigali University also extended further support to more than 100 students in the Edified Generation Scholarship Program, which has already assisted more than 400 secondary school students with education costs. The program’s second phase is currently underway, with 200 students having graduated and 200 more progressing through their studies.
The collaboration between Mount Kigali University and Imbuto Foundation spans nine years, making it a long-standing initiative aimed at improving early childhood education and community development. Over the years, the partnership has supported the establishment of several Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDCs), including projects in Masaka sector and the ongoing development of a new center in Kinyinya.