Rwanda to Expand Teacher Training Colleges to Boost Number of Qualified Educators

Rwanda’s Ministry of Education has announced plans to significantly increase the number of Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs) as part of a national strategy to expand the country’s pool of qualified teachers.

The initiative was highlighted by Minister of Education Joseph Nsengiyumva on Friday, November 14, 2025, during a visit to G.S Paysannat L.E in Kirehe District  one of the largest and most crowded schools in the country.

A Growing Need for More Teachers

Minister Nsengiyumva explained that Rwanda intends to scale up teacher recruitment, a move that must be accompanied by expanding institutions that train professional educators. “We currently have 16 Teacher Training Colleges, but we plan to increase that number so we can produce enough teachers,” he said. “Just as the health sector has its ‘4×4 strategy’ to multiply the number of doctors, the education sector must also ensure that the country has a sufficient and sustainable supply of qualified teachers.”

He added that the government’s annual teacher recruitment system remains in place: aspiring teachers apply, sit for an examination, and those who pass are deployed depending on available positions, while others remain on standby. However, expanding TTCs, he said, will reduce shortages and ease the pressure on the system.

Although he did not specify how many new colleges will be built, the minister confirmed that the current number  16 TTCs nationwide  will be increased as resources allow.

Significant Investments Already Made

Since 2021, Rwanda has invested heavily in the 16 existing TTCs, allocating RWF 74 billion to improve infrastructure, student dormitories, ICT facilities, and classroom blocks. The investments are aimed at modernizing teacher training and aligning it with the needs of a fast-evolving education system.

Students and Teachers Welcome the Reforms

Students currently enrolled in TTCs say the improvements have enhanced their training experience.

Patrick Ihabwicyubahiro, a trainee teacher at TTC de la Salle, praised the government for offering adequate learning tools and covering 50% of student fees. “I want to become a professional teacher who contributes to transforming education because the government is investing a lot in my training,” he said.

Similarly, Byishimo Theodosie, a fifth-year student at the same school, said she was inspired to pursue teaching after observing her mother’s passion for finding new ways to support children in the classroom.

Teachers also acknowledge progress. Uwineza Flora, who has been teaching for 10 years, noted that the last five years have brought more supportive working conditions. “Teachers have received salary increases and access to better teaching materials,” she said. “These changes have made it easier for us to do our work effectively.”

A Long-Term Strategy for Quality Education

The Ministry believes that expanding TTCs will not only address teacher shortages but also improve the quality of education nationwide. The program forms part of Rwanda’s broader efforts to strengthen professional training, reduce overcrowded classrooms, and ensure that every learner receives quality instruction.

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