The TWIGE Project, by USAID, aims to enhance literacy for Rwandan children by the end of Primary 3, addressing existing educational challenges in the country. Despite high primary school enrollment rates, a 2018 assessment indicated that 70% of children have inadequate reading skills by P3. The project aligns with Rwanda's national educational strategies and targets improved literacy and socio-emotional skills for all children, particularly those with disabilities. Key results include creating safer home and school environments, enhancing teacher training, improving access to quality learning materials, and strengthening educational management systems. TWIGE will also expand focus to pre-primary education and address issues like stunted growth among young children and low home literacy support. Collaborative activities, building on previous initiatives, will ensure children receive comprehensive educational support both in and out of school. The project also acknowledges the impact of COVID-19 on learning and aims to mitigate learning deficits that arose during school closures. Overall, TWIGE aligns with the goals of improving human capital and advancing Rwanda’s self-reliance.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the Homes and Communities Activity in Rwanda, aimed at enhancing literacy learning support within homes and communities. This potential five-year initiative is estimated to have a funding range of $15 to $18 million. The RFI, intended solely for information gathering, is not a commitment to issue a solicitation or award a contract.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit responses via email, including organization details and comments on the draft Activity Description, which aligns with USAID/Rwanda’s Country Development Cooperation Strategy to improve literacy outcomes. Key points of focus include community engagement in literacy promotion and support for children with disabilities.
The proposed activity aims to improve home literacy environments and community involvement, driving better literacy outcomes for children. The implementation will consider local strengths, involve relevant government institutions, and leverage existing programs to foster a collaborative approach to literacy promotion. The activity will look to create synergistic effects by coordinating with other partners while enhancing the sustainability of interventions.
This RFI serves as a foundational step towards developing the Homes and Communities Activity, ensuring community needs and insights are integrated into future program planning.