Jean Claude Nkulikiyimfura, the Executive Director of the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) in Rwanda, has been named finalist for the 2023 Africa Education Medal.
This prestigious award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions, demonstrated exceptional advocacy, and exhibited remarkable leadership in the field of education in Africa.
Reflecting on the nomination, Jean Claude expressed humility and gratitude, stating, “I am humbled to be a finalist for this incredible award. I have always believed that the greatest honor is to serve a purpose greater than any individual. Everyone at Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village, both staff and students, has worked to create a safe and loving family where trauma can be healed and young people can learn and thrive.”
Jean Claude Nkurikiyimfura
The nomination has garnered support from Gaspard Twagirayezu, Minister of State for Primary and Secondary Education at the Ministry of Education, who acknowledged Jean Claude’s impact by saying, “Jean Claude is a visionary leader who is making a positive impact on the education system in Rwanda, and his dedication to improving the lives of young people is truly inspiring. Jean Claude embodies the qualities necessary to educate ethical, resilient, and capable changemakers.”
The award, presented by T4 Education and HP in collaboration with Intel and Microsoft, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional impact, leadership, and advocacy in the field of education in Africa.
The winner of the African Education Medal will be announced mid-June, alongside other remarkable finalists who are shaping the future of education in Africa.
Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village is home to over 500 youth, who live in family-style houses with their peers and house parents. The Village provides a comprehensive education, including high school, vocational training, and leadership development. It also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and arts and other essential life skills, and develop into confident and responsible young adults.
The focus of Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village is to restore hope and opportunity to children who have experienced trauma. Rather than being mere students, they become part of a supportive and stable family unit that provides them with a sense of belonging and security. The education provided emphasizes critical thinking, workplace readiness skills, and career guidance. Additionally, the village ensures that students have access to basic necessities such as regular meals, clean water, housing, and medical attention. Beyond academics, students have the opportunity to explore visual and instrumental arts, participate in sports teams, and engage in entrepreneurship training and science center classes, enriching their learning experience.
The African Education Medal is an esteemed award that recognizes exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions, demonstrated advocacy, and exhibited remarkable leadership in the field of education in Africa.
The award aims to celebrate the achievements and innovation of individuals who are shaping the future of education on the continent.
