Government extends period that students get living allowances

Students from various University of Rwanda campuses as well as from the Integrated Polytechnic Regional Colleges, or IPRCs, have applauded the government for extending the period during which students receive living allowances, from 10 to 13 months per academic year.

Prime Minister Dr Édouard Ngirente announced the development while addressing both chambers of parliament in April on the government’s efforts to ensure students’ welfare and the quality of education, in general.

The government-subsidised students receive living allowances equivalent to RF40,000 (about US$30) per month. The payment is made for 10 months (now 13) over a student’s four years of study, except for medical students who study for six years. The living allowances form part of a tuition loan that students start to repay upon securing jobs.

The extended bursary period resonated particularly well with students.

A bigger allowance?

Emmanuel Tuyishimire, a second-year economics student at the University of Rwanda’s College of Business and Economics, expressed his appreciation for the extension.

“This is exciting, because it directly impacts our academic performance. The money we get is not enough and we face financial challenges which hinder our focus on our studies. It’s difficult to concentrate when facing food insecurity or rent worries,” he said.

However, Tuyishimire said that, although the longer period during which monthly allowances are paid, is welcome, the cost of living, including food and rent, has risen.

“While the extension is a great start, an increase in the bursary amount would be ideal. We trust the government will continue to support us.”

Aline Uwase, a second-year architecture and environment student at Nyarugenge Campus, echoed the sentiment. “Extending the bursary period is a huge benefit for daily life and allows for better focus on studies,” Uwase said.

Ange Uwineza, a third-year law student at Huye Campus, said: “It will help us to address the challenges we face. This positive news deserves appreciation.

“By promoting financial stability and responsible management, we can reduce stress and avoid resorting to harmful actions [to make money]. This ultimately fosters a healthier and more secure lifestyle for all,” she said.

Long overdue

According to Dr Frank Habineza, a member of parliament, who doubles as the president of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, his opposition party has been pushing for an increase in the living allowances and he is glad that it is happening.

Said Habineza: “I think this will help students cope well with the rising prices on the market. It’s not enough, but it is an improvement.

“This will help students to concentrate on their academics and perform better,” he added.

The government-sponsored students are mainly from poor families who benefit from the Ubudehe programme, a social protection initiative towards addressing the country’s socio-developmental challenges.

The package covers their tuition and includes the monthly living allowance of RF40,000 (US$30). This allowance is to be used towards accommodation, food, and other household and personal items, as well as to cover academic supplies.