Building Learning Foundations is a five year programme that aims to put the foundations in place to positively effect the rest of Rwanda’s education system. The BLF is working to improve learning outcomes in English and Mathematics at P1 to P5 in all government and government aided primary schools, ensuring that Rwandan children have the required foundational skills to make successful progress through the system.

Although nearly all Rwandan children are enrolled in primary school, many leave without reaching a decent level of functional literacy and numeracy. Most classrooms are basic, with limited teaching and learning resources. Many teachers are unqualified, and are often faced with large classes – sometimes with up to 60 pupils – making it difficult for them to engage every child. Through the Building Learning Foundations (BLF) programme, we are working with schools, teacher training colleges and the Rwandan Government to overcome these challenges and improve basic education for all - ensuring no child is left behind. BLF also aims to create a gender sensitive school where adolescent girls develop leadership skills and self-confidence Girls clubs target in-school girls aged between 9 to 18 years, and by empowering two gender focal teachers at each of the 21 pilot schools with a focus on knowing their body changes, being assertive, communication skills, avoiding peer pressure, building self-esteem, and so many other topics.