Saint Mary’s High School in Kiruhura, Huye District, celebrated the inauguration of its newly improved environmental laboratory, a project spearheaded by KOICA Volunteer Mr. Jin Kwang-woo. Since joining the school in August 2024, Mr. Jin has worked diligently to enhance science education by improving resource management and practical learning opportunities.
The initiative was born out of challenges in organizing and utilizing scientific equipment. To address this, Mr. Jin developed and implemented a streamlined system for laboratory resources, benefiting both students and teachers.
Key achievements of the project include the construction of a science equipment storage facility, the establishment of an efficient inventory system, and improved access to hands-on experiments. Additionally, an inviting outdoor space was created to support student well-being and foster a holistic learning environment.
The project, which cost USD 9,370.35, was primarily funded by KOICA (77%), with Saint Mary’s High School contributing 23% of the total budget.
KOICA Rwanda’s broader Country Partnership Strategy prioritizes education, TVET, youth entrepreneurship, and employment. Since 1993, over 660 KOICA volunteers have contributed to Rwanda’s development, with 54 currently engaged in fields such as education, ICT, youth development, and social welfare.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives from the Catholic Church, local leaders, and KOICA officials, who praised the initiative for enriching the school’s learning environment and empowering future scientists.
KOICA Rwanda Country Director, Ms. Kim Jin-Hwa, expressed gratitude to the school community for their collaboration, reaffirming KOICA’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s educational priorities. She emphasized the importance of hands-on learning, quoting Benjamin Franklin: “Tell me and I forget, show me and I remember, involve me and I understand.”
Ms. Kim also highlighted a meaningful African proverb: “To educate one child is to educate an entire village.” She explained that Mr. Jin’s project perfectly embodies this wisdom, as his efforts will have a lasting impact on students, families, and the wider community.
Mr. Jin, born in 1953 in South Korea, is a retired science educator with a distinguished career spanning over 36 years in Seoul. Before coming to Rwanda, he volunteered in Morogoro, Tanzania (2018–2020), further demonstrating his dedication to science education and global development.
The improved environmental laboratory at Saint Mary’s High School stands as a testament to KOICA’s enduring partnership with Rwanda and its commitment to fostering educational excellence.
