On 7 February, the IFAK community celebrated the Feast of St John Bosco while marking 62 years of the institution’s contribution to education. Beyond the celebration, the day highlighted a shared call for greater inclusion, particularly the need for a girls’ dormitory.
The celebration began with a Holy Mass, bringing together students, teachers, alumni, parents, and friends in a spirit inspired by the values of St John Bosco.
Speaking on behalf of the students, the Head Boy, Mukyo Thadee, expressed gratitude for the school’s guidance and education. “We are deeply thankful for the quality education and the loving guidance we receive at IFAK,” he said. “The Salesian values of St John Bosco continue to inspire us every day.”
The defining moment of the celebration came from the Head Girl, Isimbi Ellah, who addressed a long-standing concern. “The absence of a girls’ dormitory limits our full participation in boarding life,” she explained. “We want to feel fully included, sharing the same experiences as our brothers. This is not just a wish—it is a step toward equality and unity in our school.” Her heartfelt words were met with applause and strong support from the audience.
Following the students, alumni representative Mr. Nkuranga Alphonse, who studied at IFAK in 1989, echoed their appeal. “From its earliest days, IFAK has welcomed change and growth,” he said. “Opening boarding for girls will strengthen unity and joy among all students, just as the school has always embraced progress.”
A parent representative also praised the school’s commitment to education and values. “We appreciate how IFAK instills the Salesian values in our children, which align with Rwanda’s vision of forming good citizens,” she said. “We strongly support the call for a girls’ dormitory, as it will allow our children to grow together and strengthen family unity.”
The Director of IFAK, Rev. Fr. Ntirenganya Jean Bosco, responded to these concerns. “We hear the strong desire to host both boys and girls in boarding,” he said. “Plans for a girls’ dormitory are included in our future development projects, along with a football pitch and a gymnasium. Our goal is to provide a complete environment for education and growth.”
His statement renewed hope that the desire expressed by students, parents, and alumni could soon be realized.
Founded on 17 May 1962 as Collège Notre Dame, a carpentry and mechanical workshop school, the institution later gained private school status in 1988 and became the Institute de Formation Apostolique de Kimihurura (IFAK), continuing a legacy of quality education and inclusion.
