Round Square Junior International Conference – Kigali, Rwanda

Seven of our Grade 9 students had the incredible opportunity to represent the Boys’ College at the Round Square Junior International Conference hosted by Green Hills Academy in Kigali, Rwanda. From the moment they arrived, the city’s spotless streets, efficient traffic, and warm hospitality set the tone for an unforgettable experience.

Our students connected with students from Denmark, Germany, England, Australia, Ecuador, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, forming friendships that spanned continents. A safari in Akagera National Park gave them breathtaking sightings of rhinos, lions, and buffalo, while a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial offered a powerful and emotional learning experience. The Nyamirambo Women’s Centre highlighted the resilience of Rwandan women, and they were privileged to support their handcrafted goods.

Adventure and teamwork played a key role in their journey, with our students taking on horse riding, zip-lining, and archery at Fazenda before participating in team-building activities and discussions that strengthened their global perspective. The conference ended on a high note with cultural performances, inspiring presentations, and a night of dancing with new friends from around the world.

Thank you, Green Hills Academy, for hosting this enriching experience! Our students leave Rwanda with new perspectives, lifelong friendships, and a deep appreciation for this incredible country.

Thank you to our incredible staff who accompanied our students to this amazing conference.

Teacher Report – Mr Enos Phosa

I had the privilege of accompanying St Stithians Boys' College grade 9 learners to the Junior Round Square Conference hosted by Green Hills Academy in Kigali, Rwanda. Held from 6 February 2025 to 10 February 2025, the conference brought together 14–15-year-old delegates from across the globe to engage mainly with two of the six Round Square ideals: Environmentalism and Adventure.

The conference delivered on its promise of being an enriching experience, starting with a vibrant opening ceremony that featured cultural musical performances with powerful African drums and instruments, setting the stage for a dynamic culture exchange. Green Hills Academy’s Head of School, Dr. Daniel Hollinger, welcomed the delegates with an inspiring message: "The world has many serious problems - we need young people like you to get together and solve them." Delegates then introduced themselves, their schools, and their countries, representing a diverse range of nations, including Rwanda, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Ecuador, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia.

Throughout the conference, Baraza meetings and group activities provided a platform for deep discussions and collaborative projects. A particularly thought-provoking discussion revolved around the impact of cellphone usage on classroom learning and how schools must effectively address disruptions caused.

On day two, we embarked on a breathtaking excursion to Akagera National Park, located three hours from Kigali on the eastern border with Tanzania. The park is home to the Big Five, along with a vast array of wildlife, lakes, and rivers, showcasing Rwanda’s dedication to environmental conservation and green living.

Day three was a deeply moving experience as we visited the Genocide Memorial, where over 250,000 victims rest. The memorial’s museum provided an invaluable historical and educational experience, offering insight into Rwanda’s resilience and progress. The day continued with two enriching detours: a visit to the Nyamirambo Women’s Center, an institution empowering women through literacy, sewing, cooking, and fundraising skills, and an adventurous afternoon at Fazenda, where learners tested their courage in activities like horse riding, zip-lining, and archery.

We kicked off day four back at Green Hills Academy, where staff engaged in development workshops, while learners participated in team-based games and challenges. As a first-time Round Square representative, I found the staff development session particularly valuable, as it provided insights from experienced representatives on organizing learner-focused and Round Square-aligned conferences.

The closing ceremony at Kigali Delight Hotel was a grand finale, featuring more cultural performances that left delegates inspired and connected. The evening was a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable journey.

Representing St Stithians Boys' College at this extraordinary conference was an immense honour. The experience seamlessly blended environmental stewardship, cultural immersion, and adventure, leaving us all with lasting memories and invaluable lessons. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and look forward to witnessing how our boys apply what they have learned to shape a brighter Saints future.

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