The German Language Academy in Rwanda has officially received authorization to offer internationally recognized language certificates, a move expected to open new opportunities for many Rwandans to study and work abroad.
This development is set to make the German language an important tool in shaping the future of young people and professionals seeking global opportunities.
The announcement was made on Sunday, December 21, 2025, by Mr. Mwizerwa Murisa, Director of the German Language Academy, during a press conference held to officially introduce the European Consortium for the Certificate of Attainment in Modern Languages (ECL) German language examination in Rwanda.
Mr. Murisa said that since the academy began its operations in 2022, it has helped more than 1,000 Rwandans learn and understand the German language. Among them, over 200 students have already obtained visas.
“We are proud of the impact German Language Academy has made so far. More than 200 of our students have received visas, and many others are now working in German-funded institutions, as well as at the German Embassy in Rwanda,” he said.
He added that the academy also supports Rwandans working in international organizations and institutions linked to Germany by providing them with language training and skills needed for their daily professional work.
The Director further highlighted the academy’s partnerships with several secondary schools across the country, where German is taught through special language clubs.
“We collaborate with many secondary schools and teach German through clubs, helping young learners start understanding the language at an early age,” he explained.
Although the academy has been operating since 2022, Mr. Murisa noted that it has now officially been accredited to administer international examinations that award globally recognized certificates. He announced that the first ECL German exams in Rwanda are scheduled for February 2026.
“This is a major milestone for us and for Rwanda. Students will now be able to obtain an international certificate without traveling outside the country,” he said.
Ms. Munezero Marie, a former student of the German Language Academy who is now a staff member, shared her personal experience and expressed her gratitude for the opportunities she received through the institution.
“I am very happy to be part of this academy. It has played a big role in my life. I joined with some basic knowledge of German, but the teaching methods here are fast and high quality,” she said.
She explained that within a short period, she progressed from A1 to B2 level, thanks to dedication and hard work.
“I studied with commitment. In about seven to eight months, I moved from A1 to B2. This gave me confidence that I can pass an international exam,” she added.
Ms. Munezero said she returned to Rwanda in April 2025 and immediately joined the German Language Academy, where she continued learning and later began supporting other students as part of the teaching team.
She encouraged Rwandan youth to invest effort in learning foreign languages, especially German.
“Knowing multiple languages is a big advantage in today’s world. German, in particular, opens many opportunities to study and work in Germany, including paid work-study programs,” she said.
She also noted that students in some of these programs can earn up to 1,250 euros per month, income that can support families and contribute to national development.
While acknowledging English as a global language, she emphasized that German also offers strong opportunities for those who master it well.
This marks the first time an international German language certificate will be offered in Rwanda.
The ECL certificate, issued by the European Consortium for the Certificate of Attainment in Modern Languages, officially confirms a learner’s language proficiency level. It is widely used for university admissions abroad, visa applications—especially in Europe—and employment requiring foreign language skills. The certificate validates the ability to read, write, listen, and speak a language at an international standard, making it a key asset for education, career growth, and global mobility.
In Africa, the ECL certificate is currently offered in only five countries: Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, the Republic of Congo, and Rwanda.
