Women Plan Rwanda (WPR), through its Dropout Prevention (DOP) Program, organized and implemented a holiday meeting that brought together parents and students from partner schools in Muhanga and Nyanza Districts. This term-based session aimed to strengthen parental engagement in children’s education while reviewing students’ academic performance for Term 2 of the 2025–2026 academic year. The meeting provided a platform to assess students’ achievements, identify challenges affecting their learning, and discuss practical strategies to build a supportive home and school environment that enhances academic performance and overall student development.
DOP Meeting with Students and Parents
During the session, the DOP team led a discussion on the importance of open communication between parents and their children, emphasizing how honest conversations directly contribute to improved learning outcomes. Several students shared their experiences, explaining that when parents take time to talk with them, they feel more confident, supported, and able to speak openly. This openness makes it easier to identify issues early, discuss them, and work together toward meaningful solutions.
Students also highlighted that frequent conversations with parents create a positive and trusting atmosphere at home. Such dialogue allows children to express the challenges they face at school and even request dedicated study time when needed. During the one-on-one conversations held in the meeting, both parents and students actively listened to one another and shared thoughtful reflections on education and wellbeing.
UMURERWA’s mother expressed, “This is the first time I have sat down with my daughter in such an intentional way. I realize how important it is to listen to her about her learning and wellbeing. It makes me understand her better.”
Her daughter, UMURERWA Diane, an S3 student from GS Kaganza, added, “I feel happy that my mother is listening to me. I want her to know that sometimes school is difficult, but when she supports me, I feel stronger and more motivated.”
The session successfully created a safe space for mutual respect and understanding. Both parent and
child recognized the value of intentional communication, noting improved emotional connection and a renewed commitment to working together for better educational outcomes.