Investing in Rwanda’s labour force

Rwanda’s education sector is undergoing a transformation with significant private sector investment pouring in to bridge the skills gap in the country. The Pharo Foundation, a key player in this space, is making inroads by implementing innovative education programs and addressing critical issues like food security and water scarcity. Francesca Beausang-Hunter, Global Director, Partnerships at Pharo Foundation, shared insights on the foundation's unique approach to philanthropy and development in Rwanda and beyond. The African philanthropy landscape is evolving, with new trends emerging in the sector. While traditional grant-based philanthropy remains prevalent, there is a growing shift towards unrestricted giving and the rise of 'philanthropy middlemen' who connect donors with impactful local NGOs. However, the Pharo Foundation stands apart with its self-funding model that focuses on designing and operating projects on the ground. This hands-on approach sets them apart from conventional philanthropic models. Rwanda has become a focal point for the Pharo Foundation's efforts due to government support and the high quality of local talent. With a team of 700 employees, the foundation emphasizes practical implementation of programs, with only a small fraction based in London. This approach reflects a commitment to direct engagement and a business-like mindset in driving development initiatives. In Rwanda, the foundation has made significant investments in education, starting a school in September 2023 with over 100 children enrolled. Additionally, they have launched teacher capacity-building programs to introduce innovative learning methodologies in public schools. By democratizing education and providing affordable opportunities, the foundation aims to empower the youth, who constitute a significant portion of Africa's population, towards economic development and skill development. Francesca Beausang-Hunter highlighted the foundation's vision for federal schools, blending global educational best practices with local context to cultivate global citizens with local awareness. The emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and math fields is not just academic but fosters critical thinking and curiosity among students. This holistic approach aims to equip students with the skills needed to navigate a rapidly changing world. Beyond education, the Pharo Foundation is actively involved in addressing food security and water scarcity challenges in Africa. By promoting self-reliance and innovative solutions, the foundation is building water infrastructure like hafeer dams in regions like Somaliland to support agriculture and livestock during dry seasons. Agricultural projects focus on enhancing productivity in smallholder farming through knowledge-sharing and demonstration farms. The integrated approach of combining water management with agriculture is key to ensuring sustainable food production and economic growth. The Pharo Foundation's holistic approach to philanthropy and development in Rwanda serves as a model for empowering communities and driving inclusive growth. By investing in education, food security, and water infrastructure, the foundation is not only transforming lives but also building a foundation for sustainable progress in Africa.