Service Learning

RWANDA

8 days/7 nights | Full Board | Up to 30 participants | From $1895 pp

Engage in meaningful service and cultural exchange at the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village in Rwanda. Learn about the country's history, from the post-genocide recovery to its current state of growth and development. The program includes visits to social enterprises, immersive experiences in Rwandan culture, and an optional Big 5 safari adventure in Akagera National Park.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive at Kigali International Airport and feel the excitement as we transfer to our hotel in Kigali. After checking in, relax and rejuvenate before gathering for your first group dinner in Rwanda's stunning capital. Enjoy traditional cuisine and panoramic views of Kigali's picturesque rolling hills.

Day 2

Start the day with an orientation session before departing for the Kigali Genocide Memorial to explore exhibitions and gain historical context. After a group lunch, transfer to the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) for check-in and a guided tour. Conclude with a briefing and group reflection to share initial impressions and set the tone for the week ahead.

Day 3

Begin with a meeting with the ASYV management team to discuss the organization's mission, vision, and strategy. Enjoy your first meal with the locals. In the afternoon, meet the family mamas to learn about their roles as guardians and mentors, their stories, and their impact on the youth.

Day 4

Start the day with meaningful service activities. Explore Rubona village, observing local life and markets. Meet with the school principal and faculty to understand the Rwandan education system. In the afternoon, join students in sports, arts, or traditional dance. Experience a vibrant talent show with diverse student performances in the evening.

Day 5

Depart for Kayonza to visit Zipline, where you'll see drone technology in action, delivering vital medical supplies to remote areas. Explore the Urugo Women’s Opportunity Center, a community hub promoting women's social and economic empowerment. Learn about the Center’s education, rights training, and job-skills programs, and the impact of these initiatives.

Day 6

Join in with daily village activities or sign up for Akagera National Park for a thrilling Big 5 safari in Akagera National Park . Traverse diverse landscapes in game viewers, spotting elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, rhinos and lions. Witness Rwanda’s successful wildlife conservation efforts and enjoy the rich beauty of the park’s fauna and flora throughout the adventure.

Day 7

Start the day with meaningful service activities. Meet alumni staff to gain insights into their transformative journeys. Engage with the healthy living team, exploring their comprehensive approach to physical and mental health. In the afternoon, unwind or join community clubs and activities.

Day 8

Begin the day with a final reflection session, focusing on your experiences and growth in Rwanda. Share insights on personal and cultural exchanges with the local community. In the afternoon explore the vibrant Kimironko Market and visit a media and arts collective, then transfer to the airport for your evening departure from Rwanda.

Meals & Accommodation

Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village | Dorm rooms for students | Single rooms for staff | Full board

Locations

Included

  • 7 nights accommodation

  • All meals and soft drinks

  • Transportation

  • All activities

  • Park fees

  • Certificate of completion

  • Program management

Not included

  • International flights

  • Visas

  • Tips/gratuities

  • Laundry service

  • Alcohol

  • Travel insurance

  • Items of a personal nature

Partner

The Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) is a residential community in Rwanda that empowers orphaned and vulnerable youth through healing, education, and love. It provides a safe environment where young people can rebuild their lives, develop leadership skills, and contribute to society. ASYV focuses on restoring dignity and equipping youth with the tools to create a better future for themselves and their communities.

Which courses can our Rwanda Service-Learning Trip be tailored to?

Global Studies, Human Rights, International Development, International Relations, Peace, Conflict & Justice, Political Science, Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology, Cultural Studies, Education, Public & Community Health, Social Entrepreneurship, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Computer Science.

Reach out to learn more…