11 Schools in Rwanda to Receive the Prestigious Green Flag Award for Environmental Excellence

Kigali, Rwanda – 27th March 2025 – Today, 11 schools in Rwanda were officially awarded the prestigious Green Flag for their commitment to environmental education, sustainability, and climate resilience under the Eco-Schools Programme. Organized by the Albertine Rift Conservation Society (ARCOS), the National Operator of the Programme in Rwanda, the awarding ceremony marked a major milestone in mainstreaming Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in Rwanda’s schools.

Implemented in 101 countries, the Eco-Schools Programme was introduced in Rwanda in 2020 by ARCOS in partnership with the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB), Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), the Rwanda National Commission for UNESCO, local authorities, and communities. The programme translates the principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) into practice by infusing environmental education, action-based learning, and student-centred teaching methods into primary and secondary education.

Eco-Schools in Rwanda apply Nature-Based Solutions through Green Learning Zones to improve school feeding programs, biodiversity conservation, and climate-smart agriculture. These initiatives equip students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills, ensuring that education translates into action.

“This Green Flag Award is a testament to the power of environmental education in shaping future generations of sustainability champions. Seeing these 11 schools achieve this milestone proves that when young people are given the right tools and knowledge, they become powerful agents of change,” said Dr. Sam Kanyamibwa, Founder and CEO of ARCOS.

The Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB) also applauded the schools for their dedication to sustainability. Ngoga Fixer Eugene, Director of School Leadership and Career Guidance at REB, stated: “The integration of environmental education into our schools is a critical step in building a sustainable future for Rwanda. The Eco-Schools Programme complements our national efforts to enhance the quality of education while promoting climate resilience and sustainable development. These schools are leading the way in demonstrating how education can empower young people to become environmental stewards and active citizens.”

ARCOS is implementing the Eco-Schools Programme in both Rwanda and Uganda, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing in environmental education. Schools earning Green Flag accreditation successfully follow the seven-step process, including forming an Eco-Committee, conducting an environmental review, developing an action plan, integrating sustainability into the curriculum, engaging the community, monitoring progress, and establishing an Eco-Code. By meeting these criteria, they demonstrate excellence in sustainability and inspire others to act.

Évariste Kayijamahe, Head Teacher at Groupe Scolaire Ntarama, expressed pride, stating, “This Green Flag is not just an award—it’s a symbol of our commitment to a greener, healthier future. Our students have embraced sustainability, and we are proud to be part of this global movement.”