As the school marked its 13th year on September 19, 2024, the spotlight was on Émilienne Bingoye, an exceptional educator who led the nursery school for 12 years. Her vast experience in early childhood education has significantly contributed to the academic success of students, many of whom excelled in national exams. The anniversary event was filled with joy and celebration, recognizing her outstanding contributions.
Ferdinand Mayange, the school director, expressed his deep appreciation for Émilienne’s invaluable role in shaping the nursery school’s success. He emphasized that under her leadership, the teaching staff developed an intuitive and effective pedagogy that prepared students to seamlessly transition to primary school. “We take pride in seeing our students excel, especially in national exams. This year, two of them were accepted into a school of excellence,” he remarked.
Claude Ndayiragije, president of the parents’ committee, praised Le Sourire School as a beacon of educational excellence. He also commended Émilienne for her unwavering commitment to the school, which she joined during its second year, and for her passion for preschool education and dedication to the children.
Suavis Citegetse, founder and legal representative of the school, affectionately known as “Maman Sourire,” expressed her satisfaction with the school’s progress, attributing much of its success to Émilienne.
“She dedicated 12 years to our school, providing a nurturing and intuitive education. Although she has retired, her commitment continued until the end of the last school year. This celebration was organized to honor her for her exceptional dedication. I wanted to give her flowers while she’s still with us, because we must honor each other in life,” Suavis shared.
In response, Émilienne expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the founder for the trust and support she received over the years. “We’ve faced many challenges together. I am thankful for her openness to my suggestions for the benefit of the children and the school’s development. I also cherish the collaborative spirit of the nursery and primary school staff,” she said, moved by the occasion.
As a token of appreciation, the founder presented Émilienne with flowers and a gift, and extended thanks to the entire school staff for their dedication. She also recognized a long-serving maintenance worker who had been with the school for 12 years.
The representative of Biguma team of Jean Marie Vianney Gatogato commended Émilienne for her long-standing service to many generations of children, offering her a gift as a gesture of gratitude. The representative of the Umwizero Association also expressed admiration for her perseverance and dedication, noting her unwavering commitment to quality education, even in her later years.
The school’s legal representative also extended thanks to the Biguma team and the Umwizero Association for their ongoing support of Le Sourire School.
The 13th anniversary celebration was a heartwarming event, filled with joy and camaraderie, and a fitting tribute to the legacy of an extraordinary educator.
