NGARAMA, Gatsibo District In the rural communities of Ngarama Sector, where many children once faced significant barriers to education and basic social services, the work of Nufashwa Yafasha Organization (NYO) continues to transform lives through education, nutrition, community empowerment, and child protection.
Founded by Jean Paul BUJYACYERA, popularly known as Gutermann Guter, the organization has grown from a small community initiative into a registered non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable children, youth, women, and families in Rwanda’s Eastern Province. The organization was established in 2014 and formally registered in 2022, operating under the philosophy that “a person who is helped should also help others.”
Today, Nufashwa Yafasha Organization operates a free Early Childhood Development (ECD) and primary education program while implementing projects focused on nutrition, health, women’s economic empowerment, youth development, environmental conservation, and community engagement.
Investing in Children Through Education
Education remains the cornerstone of the organization’s mission.
Through its nursery and primary school in Ngarama, hundreds of children from disadvantaged families have gained access to quality education in a safe and supportive learning environment. Beyond classroom instruction, pupils benefit from school feeding initiatives, digital learning opportunities, sports, talent development, and psychosocial support.
The organization also works closely with parents and local leaders to reduce school dropout rates while promoting child welfare and inclusive education.
“Our vision has always been to ensure that no child is denied an education simply because of poverty,” says Jean Paul BUJYACYERA, Founder and Executive Director of Nufashwa Yafasha Organization.
“Education is the strongest investment we can make for the future of our community. Every child deserves an opportunity to learn, dream, and become a responsible citizen. When we invest in children today, we are building stronger families and a stronger Rwanda tomorrow.”
Fighting Poverty Through Community Development
Beyond education, NYO has expanded its work to address the root causes of poverty affecting vulnerable households.
Current initiatives include:
- School feeding and nutrition programs
- Community health awareness
- Women’s economic empowerment
- Youth skills development
- Environmental protection and tree plantng
- Community volunteerism
- Support for children living in vulnerable households
The organization also collaborates with local and international partners to mobilize resources that improve children’s wellbeing and strengthen community resilience.
A Journalist Dedicated to Public Service
While leading the organization, Jean Paul BUJYACYERA continues his media career as a journalist and currently serves as Program Manager at Isango Star, where he has spent more than fourteen years informing and entertaining audiences through radio broadcasting. His dual role reflects a commitment to both journalism and community service.
According to BUJYACYERA, journalism and humanitarian work complement each other.
“Journalism gives me the opportunity to tell people’s stories, while humanitarian work gives me the opportunity to help change those stories. I believe media should not only inform society but also inspire positive action and sustainable development.”
He says the experience gained through journalism has helped strengthen partnerships, raise awareness about children’s rights, and mobilize support for community development initiatives.
Looking Toward the Future
As demand for educational services continues to grow in Ngarama Sector, the organization is working toward expanding its facilities to accommodate more learners and provide additional community services.
Future plans include expanding classrooms, establishing a community library, creating a digital learning center, developing youth innovation programs, and strengthening vocational opportunities for young people and women.
“Our dream is bigger than a school,” BUJYACYERA explains. “We want to build a community where every child has access to education, every young person has opportunities to develop their talents, and every family has hope for a better future. We cannot do it alone, but together with partners, volunteers, and communities, we believe this vision is achievable.”
As Nufashwa Yafasha Organization continues its work in Gatsibo District, its growing impact demonstrates how communiy-driven initiatives, supported by dedicated leadership and partnerships, can create lasting opportunities for Rwanda’s most vulnerable children and families.
© 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭.𝐜𝐨𝐦
