Rwanda will introduce a new daily timetable for primary and secondary schools beginning with the next academic year, with regular classroom lessons set to start at 8:30 a.m. and end at 3:30 p.m., as part of efforts to improve students’ learning experience and reduce mental fatigue.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana, during an interview broadcast by RBA on Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Under the revised schedule, formal classroom instruction will run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

After the academic lessons conclude, students will remain at school for structured co-curricular and enrichment activities until 5:00 p.m.

Minister Nsengimana explained that the decision was informed by observations that many students struggle to concentrate during the final hours of a long academic day.

He said ending formal lessons earlier would help improve concentration, enhance comprehension, and reduce cognitive exhaustion among learners.

Following the regular classes, students will participate in activities designed to complement classroom learning.

These include digital and technology education, lessons on Rwandan culture and values, and participation in school clubs and other extracurricular programmes aimed at nurturing practical skills, creativity, and character development.

The Ministry also announced changes to the Friday timetable to support teachers.

Every Friday, students will be dismissed at 3:30 p.m., allowing teachers dedicated time to prepare lesson plans and organize instructional activities for the following week.

The new timetable forms part of the Ministry of Education’s broader efforts to strengthen the quality of education by creating a more balanced school day that combines academic instruction with practical learning, innovation, cultural education, and student development beyond the classroom.