Collège du Christ-Roi Nyanza (CXR), one of Rwanda’s leading secondary schools recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to innovative initiatives, continues to set an inspiring example in student engagement and sustainability. Established in 1956 and located in Nyanza District, Southern Province, CXR has become a model for integrating agriculture into education.
Among the initiatives supported at CXR is the promotion of mushroom cultivation as part of the school feeding program. This initiative was developed in collaboration with the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST), and the Rwanda Mushroom Producers and Exporters Association (RMPEA).
The introduction of mushroom-based meals has been met with enthusiastic support from students, who have expressed appreciation for both the taste and nutritional value. However, prior to the initiative, there was limited knowledge among students regarding mushroom cultivation, associated diseases, and the broader health and nutritional benefits.
This program provided a unique opportunity to raise awareness of mushroom diseases, while simultaneously introducing students and teachers to the field of Plant Pathology and the work of the British Society for Plant Pathology (BSPP). The hands-on engagement fostered meaningful learning and strengthened the connection between science, agriculture, and health at the school level.
“I am deeply grateful to BSPP for awarding me the BSPP Ambassador Fund. I am particularly thankful to Dr. Eric Boa for bringing BSPP to my attention.”
Dr. Bellancile Uzayisenga
