Opening Doors of Excellence for Refugee Students

The Ikaze Refugee Impact Scholarship (IRIS) is a fully funded, high-impact program for resilient and high-achieving refugee students in Rwanda. It prepares Senior 3 students for admission to the country’s top high schools by providing mentorship, academic support, and leadership development.

Through training in critical thinking, digital literacy, leadership, and emotional resilience, IRIS equips students to thrive in competitive and inclusive learning environments while empowering them to lead and shape their futures.

Did You Know?

Globally, less than 7% of refugees access higher education, despite research showing they can achieve just as much as their peers—if given the right support.

Rwanda is home to more than 135,000 refugees

Over 50,000 of them
are school-aged.

More Than a Scholarship

In partnership with the Shapiro Foundation, Isomo and Agahozo Shalom Youth Village, are committed to ensuring refugee students are not just placed in schools but truly supported, challenged, and prepared to step into their future with confidence.

Identify

We identify the most promising refugee students across Rwanda

Prepare

We prepare students for success as they integrate into top-performing high schools

Connect

We match students with the most competitive boarding high schools across the country

Support

We provide students with academic and psychosocial support to ensure they thrive

Rwanda has set an example for the world—not just welcoming refugees but ensuring they have access to dignified opportunities and excellence-enriched education.

Eligibility Requirements

Are you a passionate, determined student with big dreams for the future? Do you want access to top-tier education, leadership training, and a community that believes in your potential? If so, IRIS could be your gateway to excellence and opportunity!
Here’s what it takes to join this transformative program:

IRIS is committed to empowering young refugee students who, despite significant challenges, are determined to pursue A’Level education in Rwanda. This scholarship provides the resources, mentorship, and skills needed to help you overcome barriers and reach your full potential.

Life as a refugee presents obstacles, but resilience is about rising above them, adapting, and staying committed to your goals. IRIS seeks students who have maintained academic excellence despite hardships and who take initiative in their personal growth.

We are looking for students who demonstrate curiosity, academic excellence, and a strong drive to learn. Eligible candidates must:

  • Rank in the top 15% of their class from Senior 1 to Senior 3.
  • Have strong report cards that reflect consistent academic performance.

This scholarship supports students through their final three years of high school. To be eligible, you must be in Senior 3 at the time of application and prepared to transition into A’Level with full support.

IRIS is an investment in your future. Selected students must commit to completing their A’Level education within three years while actively engaging in the scholarship’s mentorship and enrichment programs.

Education is transformative, but true impact comes from using your knowledge to uplift others. We are looking for students who:

  • Take on leadership roles in school, clubs, sports, or their communities.
  • Show initiative through volunteering, peer mentorship, or service projects.
  • Have a passion for inspiring, leading, and creating positive change.
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Are You Ready to Join IRIS?

If you meet these criteria, we invite you to apply for the Ikaze Refugee Impact Scholarship and take the next step toward a future of excellence, leadership, and opportunity!