Nestled in the picturesque town of Butare, Rwanda, the Indatwa n’Inkesha School, formally known as the Groupe Scolaire Officiel de Butare (GSOB), stands as a living testament to the enduring power of education in Rwanda.  

Initially called Groupe Scolaire d’Astrida at the time of its establishment in 1929 by the Brothers of Charity to educate Rwandans who would later assist the Belgian colonial administration. The earns is regarded as one of the oldest secondary to be established in Rwanda.

Originally conceived under the ideals aimed to mold up an elite class of students destined for roles in the Belgian mandatory administration in Ruanda-Urundi, Indatwa n’Inkesha welcomed the children of chiefs and dignitaries from both Rwanda and Burundi. Over the years, the school has played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual landscape of the region, earning a reputation as a cradle of academic excellence.

One of the cornerstones of Indatwa n’Inkesha's success lies in its ability to seamlessly blend its rich history with modern educational paradigms. At the forefront of this transformative journey is the integration of Smartclass—a well-structured classroom equipped with cutting-edge Information Communication Technology (ICT) devices such as computers, projectors, and Wi-Fi connections. The implementation of Smart class represents a commitment to maximize the quality of education by providing students with a dynamic and immersive learning experience.

Smart class serves as a multifaceted tool, acting as a hub for research and collaboration. Within its technologically advanced confines, students and teachers engage in extensive research, tapping into a vast pool of information on the web to augment their knowledge and skills. This not only elevates the educational experience but also sets the stage for the success of the students.

Beyond research, Smartclass functions as a space for meetings, opening avenues for students to connect with supporters and sponsors. It becomes a vital platform for seeking educational assistance, applying for scholarships upon graduation, and engaging with sponsors committed to supporting the academic journey. This aspect of Smartclass fosters a sense of community, further enhancing the overall quality of education provided at Indatwa n’Inkesha.

Emmanuel Niyonsenga, a former student of Indatwa N’inkesha class of 2013 shared his testimony relenting on the school’s history.  

He said, "Groupe Scolaire de Butare is an institution that attracts students with the best grades in the country. This is what makes it the best in teaching, and without fail, competitions from across the country consistently place us at the forefront. The availability of important laboratory equipment further enhances our learning experience."

The institution's emphasis on attracting top-tier students, coupled with state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, exemplifies its unwavering commitment to excellence in science education.

As Indatwa n’Inkesha School continues to merge its storied past with contemporary educational innovations, it remains a shining beacon of academic excellence not just in Rwanda but in the broader context of African education. The legacy of Indatwa n’Inkesha persists, molding the minds of future leaders and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region. In the grand tapestry of time, Indatwa n’Inkesha stands tall—a symbol of progress, resilience, and unyielding dedication to the pursuit of knowledge.

In 2004, President Paul Kagame visited the school to celebrate its 75^th anniversary and thanked the Brothers of Charity. In 2012, the school celebrated its 83^rd anniversary.

Notable Alumni

Kigeli V Ndahindurwa

Louis Rwagasore

Melchior Ndadaye

Joseph Cimpaye

Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa