Rwanda bans Belgian curriculum as diplomatic row deepens
Kigali orders closure of Belgian schools and accuses Brussels of undermining national sovereignty
KIGALI, Rwanda (MNTV) – Rwanda has ordered the immediate closure of schools teaching the Belgian curriculum, escalating an already tense diplomatic standoff with its former colonial power.
In a statement, Rwanda’s Ministry of Education announced that all institutions using Belgium’s academic syllabus must cease operations by the end of the academic term. The government accused Belgium of using its education programs to “promote narratives that distort Rwanda’s history and sovereignty.”
Officials did not name specific institutions but confirmed that the directive applies to both primary and secondary schools accredited under the Belgian education system.
The decision comes amid rising diplomatic tensions between Kigali and Brussels, fueled by disagreements over historical accountability for Belgium’s colonial legacy in Rwanda, political interference, and recent criticisms by Belgian officials regarding Rwanda’s governance and regional policies.
Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta said the ban was necessary to safeguard national unity and protect young Rwandans from “external manipulation.” He added, “Education must be a tool for nation-building, not an instrument for reviving colonial mindsets.”
Relations between the two countries have steadily deteriorated in recent years. Belgium has been increasingly vocal over alleged human rights abuses in Rwanda and Kigali’s role in conflicts in the neighboring democratic republic of the congo.
In response, Rwandan authorities have accused Belgium of maintaining a paternalistic attitude and refusing to acknowledge its full responsibility for atrocities committed during its colonial rule, including its role in the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
The Belgian government has yet to issue an official response to the latest move but earlier expressed “regret” over the souring relations. Belgian officials had defended their educational institutions in Rwanda as promoting international standards and cultural exchange.
Parents and students affected by the decision have expressed confusion and concern. Some fear disruption to their academic plans, particularly those preparing for international exams recognised under the Belgian system.
“I don’t know what will happen to my daughter’s final exams now,” said Claudine Mukarubega, a parent whose child attends a Belgian-curriculum school in Kigali.
“We need clarity from the authorities.”
Education officials in Rwanda said they would assist students in transitioning to schools offering the national curriculum or other accredited international programs.
“No student will be left behind,” assured Education Minister Gaspard Twagirayezu.
Diplomatic observers say the closure of Belgian-curriculum schools marks a significant symbolic rupture and could impact broader cooperation in areas like trade, development aid, and cultural exchange.
“Rwanda is sending a clear message,” said political analyst Joseph Ndahayo.
“It is asserting that the colonial past must not dictate the future.”
As tensions continue to simmer, analysts warn that further retaliatory measures could follow unless both sides find ways to de-escalate the dispute and rebuild trust.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
