Learning History Through Lived Experience

The Survivor’s Journeying with Me Programme is a flagship educational initiative of the Ishami Foundation, designed to help students from the West and other parts of the world understand the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda through direct, human encounters.

At the heart of the programme is a powerful and unique approach: a genocide survivor accompanies students on their learning journey, visiting sites of personal and historical significance. Survivors share their stories in their own words and in the very places where events occurred, transforming history from something learned into something deeply felt and understood.

This immersive experience allows students to engage not only with the facts of the genocide, but also with the human choices made during that period acts of courage, survival, rescue, loss, and reconciliation.

Why This Programme Is Different

The Ishami Foundation believes that meaningful understanding comes through immersion. Students do not simply study Rwanda’s history; they experience the country and its people by:

• Walking the streets where history unfolded
• Listening directly to survivors’ lived testimonies
• Engaging with local communities
• Experiencing Rwanda’s culture, hospitality, and daily life

Beyond survivor encounters, the programme offers opportunities to meet rescuers, witnesses, peacebuilders, local leaders, and where appropriate former perpetrators who have participated in reconciliation processes, providing a balanced and holistic understanding of this complex history.

Programme Objectives

Education

Deepen understanding of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi through survivor-led learning, historical context, and visits to key memorial and educational sites.

Cultural Exchange

Foster meaningful connections between students from Rwanda and those from the West and beyond, promoting empathy, global citizenship, and cross-cultural understanding.

Visiting Rwanda

Enable students to witness Rwanda’s journey of recovery, reconciliation, and nation-building, while experiencing the country’s rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty.

Genocide Memorials & Historical Sites

Students visit nationally and internationally recognised genocide memorials, including UNESCO-designated sites such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Nyamata, Murambi, and Bisesero. The programme also includes visits to other significant memorial locations, including Nyanza-Kicukiro, Ntarama, Rebero, Kiziguro, and Nyarubuye, as well as additional sites of historical importance.

These visits are complemented by learning sessions at the Museum for the Campaign Against Genocide at the Parliament House and the Camp Kigali Belgian Monument, offering students a deeper understanding of the historical, political, and human dimensions of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Survivor Testimonies

Survivors accompany students to sites of personal significance, sharing firsthand accounts and reflections on memory, justice, healing, and reconciliation.

Community Engagement

Students engage with Rwandan communities through visits to schools, cultural centres, and grassroots organisations, gaining insight into contemporary Rwanda and local peacebuilding efforts.

Dialogue with Key Stakeholders

Opportunities to meet politicians, educators, community leaders, civil society actors, peacebuilders, and individuals involved in reconciliation initiatives, offering diverse perspectives on post-genocide recovery.

Culture, Nature & Exploration

In addition to its educational focus, the programme introduces students to Rwanda’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. Experiences may include wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, and visits to Lake Kivu and Lake Muhazi, offering a well-rounded understanding of the country.

Visit Rwanda: A Transformative Journey

This programme is more than an academic study tour. It is a life-changing experience that challenges assumptions, deepens empathy, and inspires responsible global citizenship. Students leave with a deeper understanding of the consequences of hatred, the power of resilience, and the importance of remembrance and prevention.

Logistics & Support

The Ishami Foundation has extensive experience organising international educational visits and provides full logistical support, including:

• Professional in-country coordination
• Customised itineraries aligned with academic objectives
• Comprehensive safety, safeguarding, and participant support

Every visit is carefully planned to ensure a respectful, secure, and meaningful experience for all participants.

For further details about the program and how a school can book a trip to Rwanda, please contact us via email (info@ishamifoundation.org) or our social media platforms.