Youth for Christ Rwanda, an organizlsation behind the Christian School network, says its faith-based approach to education has played a significant role in protecting students from risky behaviors over the past 20 years.

According to the organisation, among the thousands of students who have attended its schools during that period, only two cases of teenage pregnancy have been recorded.

The school’s leadership made these remarks as Rwanda’s Seventh Demographic and Health Survey (DHS7) indicates that teenage pregnancies among girls aged 15 to 19 have remained at approximately 8% of all girls in that age group annually over the past five years (2020–2025).

As Christian School celebrates its 20th anniversary, the institution highlights the achievements of the thousands of students who have passed through its classrooms, noting that many who embraced the school’s Christian values have successfully completed their studies and gone on to build productive lives.

Jean Baptiste Mugarura, founder of Youth for Christ Rwanda, explains that Christian Schools in Kigali, Rwamagana, and Gicumbi implement the organisation’s “Worth a Wait” program. The initiative encourages young people to abstain from sexual behaviors until they are mature enough for marriage.

“We have operated these schools for 20 years, serving thousands of students. To the best of my knowledge, I have only heard of two students becoming pregnant while enrolled here,” Mugarura said. “There may have been other cases, but those are the only two I am aware of.”

He attributes this outcome to the combination of academic instruction and biblical teaching, which he believes helps students stay focused on their goals. According to Mugarura, many graduates have gone on to secure places in prestigious schools both within Rwanda and abroad, later excelling in their professional careers.

Deborah Uwase, a senior six student, says she has studied at Christian School for the past three years and has not seen any of her classmates drop out due to teenage pregnancy.

She cites the biblical figure Deborah as her role model—the only female judge of ancient Israel, remembered for leading her people to victory when others had failed.

“Whether at school or elsewhere, we face many challenges. We constantly remind ourselves that our goal is to study hard and achieve our dreams. That mindset is one reason why cases of teenage pregnancy are virtually unheard of at our school,” she said.

Parent Adelphine Kanyange, whose children attended Christian School, believes the institution’s unique blend of academic education and Christian values sets it apart from many schools in Rwanda. She argues that biblical teachings are increasingly needed across the country.

According to Kanyange, many young people become involved in drug abuse, sexual misconduct, and other harmful behaviors because they lack moral guidance and are not exposed to Christian teachings.

Jean Marie Vianney Nsengimana, Director of Education at Youth for Christ Rwanda, echoed that more than 2,800 students currently enrolled in Christian Schools benefit from an environment that promotes positive values and discourages harmful behaviors.

He maintains that the school’s emphasis on Christian principles helps students remain focused on their education and reduces the likelihood of dropping out due to preventable social challenges.