Program Overview
We believe every child deserves a chance to reach her full potential, regardless of her family’s financial situation. Our scholarship
program is currently focused on creating life-changing opportunities for girls in Rwanda who have excelled academically but face financial barriers to continuing their education beyond primary school.
While 78% of girls in Rwanda complete primary education, only 38% go on to complete secondary or higher education. This is largely due to financial constraints. Our program is designed to reverse this trend and invest in the future of Rwanda, one girl at a time.
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Why Invest in Girls
Reduce Dropout Rates
Economic hardship remains a leading cause of school dropout for girls, especially at the secondary and tertiary levels. Our goal is to change that, one student at a time.
Promote Gender Equality
Educated girls become empowered women. They are more likely to advocate for themselves, break cycles of poverty, and contribute to building a more just and equitable society.
Foster Long-Term Growth
A well-educated female population is essential to the future of Rwanda’s social and economic development.
Current Scholars
Marcelline
Age: 17
“I want to study to become someone. When I finish school, I want to help lift my family out of poverty and support others in my village who are also struggling. Education is my path to making a difference.”
Irakoze
Age: 13
“My parents are facing financial challenges, but I believe that through education, I can change that. One day, I want to help others who are going through what my family is experiencing now.”
Umutoni
Age: 12
“When I finish my studies, I want to support my family and also serve my country. I believe in a future where I can contribute to something bigger than myself.”
Winnie's Story - Scholarship Recipient
Breaking Barriers, Building a Future
My name is Murungi W, and I’m proud to call Rwanda my home. As the second-born in a family of seven children, I grew up deeply aware of how valuable education is and how difficult it can be to access when financial hardship stands in the way.
Despite my passion for learning, the cost of school fees made it seem like secondary education might remain out of reach. My parents worked hard, but with so many mouths to feed, the burden was simply too great.
That’s when Regina entered my life as a beacon of hope during a time of uncertainty. Her decision to support my education changed everything. I no longer had to fear being sent home because of unpaid tuition. I could finally focus on learning.
Thanks to her generosity, I completed secondary school and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. Today, I’m proudly working while pursuing my CPA certification and preparing to begin my Master’s degree.
The impact of that one act of kindness continues to shape who I am. I’ve learned that perseverance, combined with the support of someone who believes in you, can truly change a life.
My dream is to one day pay it forward to be the reason another young girl finds her path, just as Regina helped me find mine.
– Murungi W.
Program Details
We provide 6-years of full support to help students transition from secondary school through high school graduation.
Who we look for:
- Score among the top in national primary school exams
- Demonstrate financial need
- Are selected in partnership with local school leaders
What we cover?
- Full tuition (paid directly to schools)
- School uniforms and clothing
- Personal hygiene products
- Shoes and school supplies (notebooks, pens, etc.)
- Ongoing mentorship and academic support
Costs per Student
| Support Needed | Cost (per-term) |
Annual Cost (3-terms) |
| Tuition | $95 | $285 |
| School Supplies & Essentials | $150 | $450 |
| Total per Student/Year | $735 | |
| 6-Year Total per Student | $4,410 | |
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Program Lead:
Regina Ingabire
This program was founded by Regina Ingabire, who leads with both passion and lived experience.
Born in Tanzania to Rwandan refugee parents, Regina moved to Rwanda after the 1994 genocide. She witnessed firsthand how many girls—bright and capable—were unable to pursue higher education due to financial hardship. Many married young, without the chance to return to school.
Driven to break that cycle, Regina founded the Youth Education Scholarship Program to ensure girls and all children can shape their own futures.
She holds a Master’s in Sustainable International Development from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s in accounting from the National University of Rwanda. She now lives in Portland, Oregon with her family.
Join Us in empowering Rwanda’s future. Together, we can ensure that no girl’s potential is left unrealized because of her financial situation.
Let’s invest in the future, one girl at a time.
