Exploring the design and implementation process of the Kigali City education strategy

Abstract

This study aimed to analyse how the City of Kigali designs and implements its “education strategy” to ensure successful planning to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4. It adopted a qualitative study approach. Using a semi structured questionnaire, sixteen interviews with the key actors involved in the city's education policy including elected officials and education staff of the city hall; the district and sector education actors, civil society organisations and private sector companies were conducted; and eight focus group discussions with school community members. The study illustrates a clear commitment of the City of Kigali for education but also reveals an indirect involvement of some actors such as parents and private schools in designing the city education strategy, yet they play a key role in its implementation. It recommends recognising education as a top-level priority and setting up a specific education unit at the city level to coordinate education plans and activities.