The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has concluded a five-day nationwide student engagement campaign aimed at strengthening awareness of child rights and addressing the rising trend of teenage pregnancy in Rwanda.

The campaign, which began in Kigali City across Nyarugenge, Gasabo, and Kicukiro districts, expanded to secondary schools in Nyabihu, Ngororero, Rutsiro, Kamonyi, Huye, and Gakenke. Through interactive dialogue sessions, awareness talks, and open discussions, the initiative reached hundreds of students and encouraged active participation on issues affecting their rights and well-being.

Organized in response to recent findings from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (2025) showing an increase in teenage pregnancy from 5% to 8% over the past five years, the campaign sought to equip students with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities. Particular emphasis was placed on the rights to education, health, protection, and dignity, and how early pregnancy disrupts the fulfillment of these fundamental rights.

Throughout the sessions, students raised concerns, shared experiences, and proposed peer-led solutions to prevent teenage pregnancy and promote accountability and mutual respect within schools. Discussions underscored the importance of informed decision-making, resisting peer pressure, reporting abuse, and seeking guidance from trusted adults and relevant institutions. Girls were encouraged to confidently assert their rights and firmly reject any form of pressure, coercion, or advances that threaten their dignity and future.

NCHR Chairperson Umurungi Providence stressed that preventing teenage pregnancy is a shared responsibility across society.

“Preventing teenage pregnancy is not solely the responsibility of girls; it is a collective duty that calls for respect, responsibility, and integrity from both boys and girls, as well as active engagement from parents, schools, and the wider community,” she stated. “Protecting child rights requires open dialogue, vigilance, and accountability to ensure every child grows in dignity and reaches their full potential.”

The Commission emphasized that safeguarding child rights demands sustained collaboration among families, schools, local leaders, and public institutions. Beyond raising awareness, the campaign reinforced the importance of reporting rights violations and ensuring that perpetrators of abuse are held accountable, thereby fostering safer and more supportive learning environments for all students.