The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has today launched a five-day nationwide engagement with secondary school students aimed at strengthening awareness of child rights and addressing the growing concern of teenage pregnancy.

The campaign commenced in Kigali City, covering Nyarugenge, Gasabo, and Kicukiro, and will continue in high schools across Nyabihu, Ngororero, Rutsiro, Kamonyi, Huye, and Gakenke districts through February 27, 2026.

The initiative comes at a time when findings from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) (2025) indicate that teenage pregnancy has increased from 5% to 8% over the past five years. Girls aged 15 to 19 remain the most affected, with pregnancy rates rising progressively within this age group.

During the Kigali sessions, students engaged in interactive discussions on their rights—particularly the rights to education, health, protection, and dignity—and examined how teenage pregnancy undermines the full enjoyment of these rights. The discussions also encouraged students to take an active role in preventing early pregnancy and promoting respect for child rights in their schools and communities.

The Commission reiterated the importance of collective responsibility among students, parents, educators, and community leaders in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children across the country.