The Ministry of Sports and the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) have announced that efforts are underway to ensure that the children recently dismissed from the Bayern Munich Academy are enrolled in schools as promised.
According to IGIHE, after a year of operating the Bayern Munich Academy, coaches conducted a review of the children in the program. They determined that 14 children could no longer continue due to poor performance and behavior, and they were replaced by other talented children selected from across the country.
Parents of these children were informed of the decision and reassured that their children would continue to be supported, including having their school fees paid. However, the children would no longer stay at the academy in Kigali. Despite this, some parents expressed concerns on social media, noting that the new school year had already started, and they had not received any updates. They began to worry that their children might have been permanently dismissed without their knowledge.
Speaking to IGIHE, a FERWAFA official confirmed that arrangements had been made, including discussions with schools where the children would be enrolled, explaining that the delay was due to a high volume of requests at the start of the school year.
The official stated, “We are aware of the issue, and we have already explained to the parents that these children will continue to be supported, including having their school fees covered.”
He added, “We’ve spoken with the school administrators, and they’ve agreed not only to cover their tuition but also to provide necessary support, including materials and coaching. The children will be informed to report to their schools shortly.”
The official further explained that the coaches at these schools would continue to provide the children with training and development, in collaboration with institutions known for nurturing football talent. Additionally, Bernhard Hirmer, who leads the training programs at the Bayern Munich Football Academy in Rwanda, will periodically visit to assess their progress.
The Ministry of Sports also addressed the issue on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, confirming that the situation is being monitored and will be resolved soon.
They stated, “Thank you for reaching out to us. As a ministry, we are aware of this issue, and we are closely following it in collaboration with other stakeholders to ensure a quick resolution. Thank you.”
Through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Rwanda signed a five-year partnership agreement with Bayern Munich, which involves promoting Rwanda’s tourism by advertising at the Allianz Arena. As part of the agreement, Bayern Munich is also committed to developing football in Rwanda by supporting young players.
