Top 5 challenges English teachers face in Rwanda and how to solve them

Teaching English in Rwanda is a rewarding experience, but it comes with real challenges. Many teachers, especially in rural areas, work in difficult conditions. Based on my experience as an English teacher and trainer, here are five common challenges and practical ways to solve them.

1. Limited Teaching Resources

Many schools don’t have enough textbooks, storybooks, or teaching materials. Some teachers rely only on chalk and board.

Solution:

Teachers can work together to create shared resources through WhatsApp groups or Google Drive. Joining a Community of Practice (CoP) helps in sharing worksheets, lesson plans, and even short stories.

2. Low Learner Participation

Some learners fear speaking English or don’t feel confident. Others don’t see the importance of English in their future.

Solution:
Use games, songs, and role plays to make lessons fun and engaging. Connect English with real-life situations like job interviews or business to show its value.

3. Big Class Size and Limited Time

With 50+ learners in one class and only 40 minutes, it’s hard to support everyone.

Solution:
Group work is key. Divide learners into small groups with clear tasks. Let them support each other and rotate the groups often.

4. Lack of ICT Knowledge

Many teachers have smartphones but don’t know how to use digital tools for teaching.

Solution:
Start small: use WhatsApp to send voice messages or videos. Tools like Kahoot, Google Docs, and Quizlet can be introduced gradually through peer support and CoP training.

5. Little Peer Support

Some teachers feel isolated and work alone, without sharing experiences or getting feedback.

Solution:
Join or start a local Community of Practice (CoP). Meeting monthly with other teachers to share and support each other builds confidence and brings new ideas.

In   a  nutshell,  every challenge is an opportunity to grow. English teachers in Rwanda are strong, creative, and passionate. By working together, we can overcome any barrier and help our learners succeed.

 What challenge do you face most in your classroom? Share it in the comments.