From Knowledge Consumers to Creators: Rwandan Students Join Global Wikimedia Movement through Wiki clubs

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Capt: Wiki Clubs inauguration and Wiki vibrance launching in Rwandan high schools 2024
By Annick green – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, 

Rwamagana District, Rwanda, May 10, 2024, – In a collaborative manner aiming to enhance education and digital literacy, the Rwamagana District saw the inauguration of Wiki clubs at GS Gishari and GS Ruhunda high schools. This milestone event, which also marked the launch of the Wiki Vibrance Contest, was organized by Wikimedia Rwanda members Nishimirwe Liliane and Rugamba Robert who will be coordinating the WikiClubs. The initiative by Wikimedia Rwanda is one of the learnings from other wider Wikimedia communities such as Wikimedia Nigeria, which aims to empower high school students by fostering a culture of knowledge creation, digital literacy, and collaborative learning through Wikipedia and its sister projects.

The event opened with enthusiastic welcoming remarks from school administrators and local authorities, who highlighted the importance of Wiki clubs in high schools. These clubs are designed to serve as platforms for students to engage in meaningful knowledge creation. An overview of the Wiki Vibrance Contest was also provided, outlining its objectives and the exciting opportunities it presents for students.

Capt:  Mr. NIYITANGA Emilien, the Headteacher of GS. Ruhunda sharing his opening remarks
By Annick green – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,

A keynote speech underscored the importance of digital literacy and knowledge creation. The guest speaker highlighted Wikipedia’s crucial role in education, transforming students into active contributors to the global knowledge economy. NIYITANGA Emilien, the Headteacher of GS Ruhunda, expressed profound appreciation for Wikimedia Rwanda’s impact, stating, “Open knowledge is the way to grow minds and set the research agenda, providing immeasurable opportunities to the education ecosystem, especially at GS Ruhunda.” Similarly, the Deputy Headteacher of GS Gishari welcomed the initiative, acknowledging its significant role in shaping the future of education.

By Annick green – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, 

Inauguration of Wiki Clubs

The official inauguration of Wiki clubs at GS Gishari and GS Ruhunda marked a good start. Club guidelines and resources were distributed to students and club moderators, laying the groundwork for sustained engagement and learning.

Launch of Wiki Vibrance Contest

The Wiki Vibrance Contest was launched with a detailed explanation of its guidelines, rules, and timeline. Contest themes, categories, and prizes were announced, followed by the registration of enthusiastic participants. The contest aims to inspire students to contribute to Wikipedia, showcasing their research and writing skills.

Workshops and Training Sessions

Interactive workshops and training sessions were held, focusing on Wikipedia editing, sourcing, and citation techniques. Students received training in digital literacy, research skills, and critical thinking, equipping them with essential tools for effective knowledge creation and dissemination.

Hands-on Activities

Students engaged in hands-on practice sessions, creating and editing Wikipedia articles under the guidance of experienced mentors. Group activities encouraged brainstorming and collaboration for Wiki Vibrance Contest entries, fostering a spirit of teamwork and innovation.

Capt: GS Gishari Wiki club patron sharing his remarks
By Annick green – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,

Closing Ceremony

Contribution details:

Wiki vibrance in Wiki Clubs contest was opened on May 10, 2024 and closed by May 28, 2024.

#36 Participants has registered, #32 contributed on Wikipedia and 2 contributed on Wiki commons, Total articles created: 149, Total articles edited: 249, Total edits: 474, Total words added:43.2K, Total uploaded:37, Total references: 209.

We were celebrating and awarding the best contributors for this incredible milestone made by our young generation in High schools, and have shown to become undoubtable wikimedians as their contributions shows.

Awards

Capt: Rewards to the contest winners 
By Annick green – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,

Best teacher contributor 

  1. AKINGENEYE Jean Felix from GS. Gishari
  2. MUNYANEZA Emmy from GS. Ruhunda

Best student contributor

1st runner ups

  • NIYONSENGA Yakin from GS. Ruhunda
  • NSHIZIRUNGU Steven from GS. Gishari

2nd runner ups

  • MANIRUMVA Samuel from GS. Ruhunda
  • NIYOYITA Irene from GS. Gishari

3rd runner ups

  • TWAHIRWA Emerance from GS. Ruhunda
  • HAKIZIMANA Placide from GS. Gishari

Best female contributor

  • UWAYO Ines from GS. Gishari

Best general contributor

  • UWUMUGISHA Ishimwe Lonson from GS. Ruhunda
Capt: GS. Ruhunda Awarding ceremony
By Annick green – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,

Outcomes

The event achieved several positive outcomes:

– Establishment of Wiki Clubs: Wiki clubs were successfully established at GS Gishari and GS Ruhunda, providing students with dedicated platforms for collaborative learning and knowledge creation.

– Launch of Wiki Vibrance Contest: The contest was launched successfully, motivating students to actively contribute to Wikipedia and hone their research and writing skills.

– Enhanced Digital Literacy: Participating students gained valuable skills in digital literacy and research, enhancing their academic and personal development.

– Strengthened Partnerships: The event strengthened partnerships between schools, local communities, and educational authorities, supporting ongoing initiatives to promote digital education and knowledge sharing.

By Annick green – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,

Conclusion

The inauguration of Wiki clubs and the launch of the Wiki Vibrance Contest mark the beginning of a learning journey in Rwandan high schools. By promoting digital literacy and empowering students to become active contributors to the global knowledge ecosystem, these initiatives pave the way for a brighter future. The positive impact of these efforts on the academic and personal growth of students in Rwanda is eagerly anticipated.

For more details on the contest, visit

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