Cyumba: Teachers urged to take the lead in fighting unsafe beverages

The Mayor of Gicumbi District, NZABONIMPA Emmanuel, has called on teachers to play a leading role in the fight against substandard beverages, urging them to use their position and influence in society to protect young people and contribute to building the country’s future.

He made the remarks on 5 October 2026 in Cyumba Sector, where he joined teachers to mark World Teachers’ Day, celebrated this year for the 60^th time worldwide and the 25^th time in Rwanda.

The 2026 celebrations were held under the theme: “Supporting teachers: 60 years of defending, promoting and preparing the future of the teaching profession.”

Addressing the teachers, Mayor NZABONIMPA Emmanuel described them as key actors in the country’s sustainable development. He encouraged them to uphold strong moral values and dedicate themselves to nurturing responsible, skilled and capable young people.

He particularly urged teachers to take an active role in preventing the consumption of substandard beverages, stressing that their influence and close interaction with young people place them in a strong position to help protect children from harmful substances.

“We urge teachers to be at the forefront of the fight against substandard beverages. You are educated members of society, and you should not allow our children to become a burden when they are the Rwanda of tomorrow. You have a responsibility to lead the fight against substandard beverages and support Government initiatives aimed at protecting the health and future of our children,” he said.

The Mayor also encouraged teachers to serve as role models and ensure that students entering the labour market possess not only academic knowledge and practical skills, but also strong values that will enable them to make a positive contribution to their families and the nation.

During the celebrations, Cyumba TSS was recognised for its outstanding performance in the previous academic year after one of its students emerged first at national level.

The ceremony also brought together retired teachers, who were recognised for their contribution to the advancement of education and their role in the development of the country.

World Teachers’ Day, observed annually on 5 October, provides an opportunity to recognise the vital contribution of teachers to the quality of education and to the preparation of future generations.