Change for the changemakers: Imparting life-long health

Jean Marie, English teacher at Kirambo School

Jean Marie’s eyes light up when she speaks about her primary school students. “I became a teacher because I loved being a student myself, and it gives me a boost to explain to a child what I know.” Now, as the lead teacher in charge of Kirambo School’s garden project in western Rwanda, Jean Marie passes along more than knowledge: she’s imparting life-long health.

“In this area, there were many malnourished children,” Jean Marie explains, “but with our school garden, we teach students how to plant seeds and eat vegetables. We’re giving them information, as well as seeds and even part of the school’s harvest to take home.” She takes a walk through the school’s extensive gardens, pointing out everything from beetroot and carrots to kale and amaranth. Here, students have the opportunity to join the school’s garden club, helping with tasks like watering and weeding, all while absorbing tips they can share at home.

But the school garden is just the tip of the iceberg. Kirambo School’s curriculum also includes nutrition lessons, such as how to create a balanced meal from four colors: green (iron), orange (Vitamin A), brown (protein), and white (carbs). Jeane Marie emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet: “When students are well-fed, they get sick less often. When they aren’t hungry, they follow lessons better, and they won’t fall asleep in class. Eating well is important for students because it helps them to grow both physically and mentally.”  

“I’m proud to teach my students,” Jean Marie beams. “They are the future leaders of this country; they’re going to be the changemakers of Rwanda.”

Story and photos by Jessica Wright