Cardinal Kambanda Champions Ntare Louisenlund School as Leader Model

A Visionary Institution Nurturing Future Leaders

Cardinal Antoine Kambanda recently visited the Ntare Louisenlund School (NLS) in Bugesera, where he praised the institution as a remarkable place that fosters both academic and spiritual growth among students. The Archbishop of Kigali was on hand during the school’s recent visit, where he led Mass and administered sacraments to students before exploring the campus. He described the new international educational institution, inspired by Uganda's Ntare School and Germany's Stiftung Louisenlund, as a unique opportunity for young Rwandans to receive an education that will prepare them to become leaders and change-makers.

“Nothing is as important a legacy as giving a good education to a child. That is a golden inheritance every parent would be happy to give out to their children,” Kambanda said. “Some sacrifice a lot for their children to go overseas for a good education, but the campus is already here. This is an extraordinary opportunity that we give thanks to the Almighty God and visionary leadership.”

The Ntare Louisenlund School opened its doors in 2024 and offers personalized learning, STEM education, and leadership programs. With exceptional facilities, diverse extracurricular activities, and a multi-national community, the school is committed to nurturing well-rounded students prepared for success at top universities worldwide.

During his visit, Cardinal Kambanda toured several key facilities, including the dining hall and modern science and technology laboratories that enable comprehensive experimentation. He also visited the school’s spacious courtyard, designed for multiple sports such as basketball, tennis, volleyball, and football. In addition, he explored the studios and arts classrooms, where students engage in creative and recreational activities beyond regular lessons.

“The school has awarded scholarships to top-performing students from across the country who might otherwise have joined other ordinary institutions. They are learning a lot here, and the school is contributing greatly to the nation. Brilliant students are a gift to the country, and the school recognises that,” he said.

Cardinal Kambanda noted that the school draws inspiration from Uganda’s Ntare School, whose philosophy has nurtured leaders in Rwanda and Uganda. He expressed confidence that this philosophy will be maintained at NLS, ensuring that Rwanda’s future generations inherit the same values.

“That is how visionary leadership works,” he explained. “If your goal is to end hunger in one year, you cultivate rice. For ten years, you plant a tree. But if you look a hundred years and beyond, you raise a child in a dignified and efficient way. That is an example of our country.”

However, the cardinal emphasized that the best education without spiritual awareness is nothing. “It is better to nurture both the mind and the spirit. When a child is able to connect knowledge with faith, that is the most meaningful result. The greatest knowledge is to know the Almighty God and His wisdom,” he said.

He hailed the school's program that provides time for spiritual formation, with students guided in faith according to their respective denominations. Damien Paul Vassallo, Head of NLS, said that Cardinal Kambanda's visit meant a lot for the school and learners. “It’s such an honour to have him around,” Vassallo said. “That’s so significant to have, especially him. It's so special for our students to have him come. 14 students received the sacraments of Holy Communion, Baptism, and Confirmation. It's such a milestone to the lives of individuals.”

“We're an international school. Having him around to meet different nationalities is something special. It shows that he cares so much about young people's upbringing, character education, and them becoming the best possible people,” he added.