In tribute to her father, chemist Joseph Katihabwa, his daughter, Chantal Katihabwa, created the Burundi Education Foundation to develop science education. Among the objectives of this foundation, the establishment of digital centers in all provinces of Burundi.
Briefly, what is “Burundi Education Foundation”?
It is a UK registered NGO whose main objective is to promote the quality of education in Burundi, from primary school to university. We also aim to create digital centers in all provinces of Burundi to improve the quality of education in general, and science, especially mathematics, in particular.
Why do you favor digital?
There are many teachers, especially in primary school, who do not know how to use computers. However, this is essential in today’s world. We equip rooms in schools or community centers with computers, projectors, webcams and printers. Thanks to the Internet, distance learning will be possible.
What are your areas of action?
Initially, we tried to help the village of Rusaga, located in the commune of Ryansoro, where my father was born. With the natives of Rusaga, we created an association to seek funds to build a primary school. With the help of UNICEF, we were able to build a primary school with very good quality materials, as well as solar panels. We also provide all the teaching materials, uniforms and school supplies for each student. Last Friday, I inaugurated the Kiganda digital center. This center will be used to train trainers and teachers in mastering the computer tool.
What material did you deliver to Kiganda?
We have provided 29 computers, a projector, and the necessary equipment for running a digital center. Our goal is to cover all provinces of Burundi in order to boost the teaching of science, technology, etc.
How is the tracking done?
There will be a monitoring team because we will sign contracts with all the managers of the centers. These equipments are not permanent donations; they must be well maintained and always available for the beneficiaries.
What about equal opportunities between boys and girls?
Our organization gives equal opportunities to everyone. In addition, we think of underprivileged girls and provide them with sanitary towels. Sometimes, due to lack of these towels, young girls stay at home for a few days. The Burundi Education Foundation is run by a Burundian woman who is sensitive to these issues.
Where do your organization’s resources come from?
The donations we have given to Kiganda come from an organisation in the UK that equips schools. There is also an organisation called Computer Aid that sells refurbished computers to NGOs. In addition, we have a contract with a company called Currys, which sells new computers at a discount to NGOs. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who support our foundation.
Where do you get the energy to carry out this project?
My father’s memory inspires and motivates me. My father wanted the development of science in Burundi. He was among the first Burundians to own a computer and pay for an internet connection. I was happy to hand over a batch of 28 computers to the chemistry department, a department dear to my father. Students will be able to conduct research on the internet. My father encouraged students to strive for excellence. With this primary school in Rusaga and this digital center in Kiganda, I am sure that, wherever he is, he must be proud to see that his ideal continues.
