Kigali Schools to Close for One Week During Cycling World Championships

The decision, taken in collaboration with the City of Kigali, affects all levels of learning institutions from nursery, primary, secondary, and universities. Lessons will resume on Monday, September 29.

Officials said the move is intended to ease preparations, reduce congestion, and ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the international sporting event.

To avoid disrupting the academic year, MINEDUC confirmed that the missed school days will be added to the calendar. Schools have also been asked to prepare alternative ways of keeping students engaged, including online lessons, home assignments, and other supplementary activities.

In addition, a special education booklet on cycling and the UCI competition has been developed in partnership with the Rwanda Education Board (REB). The resource, available online, is designed to help students learn more about the sport and Rwanda’s role in hosting a world-class championship.

“Students are encouraged to use this time to study and also gain knowledge about cycling, how it is organized internationally, and what it means for Rwanda to host such an event,” the ministry said in its statement.

The UCI Road World Championships will take place in Kigali from September 21–28, making Rwanda the first African country to stage the prestigious competition.