Elizabeth Davis, CEO
A recent text message from an Akilah student to Monique Schmidt, Akilah Program Director.
“Hi, I’m so glad to hear your good voice. I think that you will develop my mind, and my family because I’m very interested in all who will teach me. OK, see you soon, thank you so much. May God bless you at all.”
After a rigorous admissions process, we have selected our first class of 50 incredibly impressive young women who will attend Akilah. Although our students come from varied backgrounds and parts of Rwanda, they share the desire to learn and become leaders in their communities. They will arrive at the Akilah campus early on Tuesday morning for their first day of classes.
The Foundation Year is a one year program designed for students who demonstrate exceptional potential, but need another year of English and core courses. They will study Intensive English, Introduction to Hospitality, Health & Nutrition, and Leadership & Ethics. The small class size ensures that each student will receive mentoring and guidance from Akilah teachers and staff. Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, students will begin the Akilah Diploma in January 2011.
(Beginning in 2011, Akilah will offer a 2 year diploma in hospitality studies that will train young women to be leaders and entrepreneurs in the fastest growing sector of the Rwandan economy.)
Many Akilah students have only studied in French-speaking schools and English is their third or fourth language.
(Although, the Rwandan government made a bold statement when they decided to change the education system from French to English. )
One of the bright Akilah classrooms- ready for books and students!