Rwanda has taken exciting step for language learners 🇩🇪✨. For the first time, students in Rwanda can now take internationally recognised German language exams without leaving the country. This follows the official accreditation of Der Sprachen Hub | German Language Academy to host ECL German language examinations, making it the first authorised ECL exam centre in East Africa.
For many years, learning German in Rwanda came with a major challenge. Even after completing their studies, learners had to travel abroad to sit for exams, wait for months to find exam slots, or pay very high fees 💸. For some, these barriers delayed or completely blocked their dreams of studying, working, or settling in Germany and other German-speaking countries.
That situation is now changing ✔.
📘 A New Chapter for German Learners
The accreditation was officially granted on 2 December 2025, and the news was confirmed publicly on 21 December 2025 by Mwizerwa.M the CEO and Founder of Der Sprachen Hub During the Media Press Conference.
“This is a major breakthrough for German language learners in Rwanda; there were cases where students finished their courses but had to wait months to find an exam Centre. Others faced high fees or poor service. We chose ECL because it provides a practical solution to these challenges.” he said
Mwizerwa.M the CEO and Founder of Der Sprachen Hub
Starting 6-7 February 2026, Der Sprachen Hub will host the first ECL German exams in Kigali, covering levels A2, B1, B2, and C1, all aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) 🎯.
🌍 Why ECL Exams Matter
ECL (European Consortium for the Certificate of Attainment in Modern Languages) exams are developed in Germany and internationally quality-controlled by the University of Pécs in Hungary. The certificates are officially recognized in Germany for many important purposes, including:
📌 University admissions
📌 Job applications
📌 Citizenship and permanent residence
📌 Family reunification
📌 Vocational training and volunteering
According to Mwizerwa, one of the strengths of the ECL exam system is that it is clear, user friendly, and affordable, compared to other options.
“The exam is designed with learners in mind. It is accessible, practical, and officially recognized for many legal and professional purposes in Germany,” he explained.
🇷🇼 Trust in Rwanda’s Systems
Mwizerwa also revealed that Rwanda’s strong reputation played a key role in receiving the accreditation.
“International examinations require honesty and high standards, Rwanda’s progress in good governance, transparency, and anti-corruption measures was a major factor in earning this trust. This recognition places Rwanda on the map as a reliable host for international standard examinations.” he said.
🗣 Voices of Rwandan Students
Many Rwandan students have already expressed excitement and relief about having the ECL German exams available locally.
One student Eric Gatete shared, “Before ECL, I had to travel abroad just to take a German exam. Platforms like Goethe and ÖSD where stressful one small mistake could make you fail and pay again.”
Eric say ECL has changed this experience “What I love about ECL is that even if you don’t pass every part of the exam, your successes still count. For example, you can score high in speaking and improve your listening later you still get your certificate! Having the German exam here in Kigali is a dream come true. Now I can plan my future without worrying about travel costs.”
🧑🏫 Learning and Exams Under One Roof
Der Sprachen Hub is not only an exam Centre but also a full German language training academy. It offers courses from A1 to C1, using flexible learning models that suit different lifestyles:
🕒 Morning and evening classes
📅 Weekend sessions
💻 Online and e-learning platforms
🔄 Hybrid learning (online + in-person)
Currently, the academy serves over 200 students and operates campuses in Kigali, Huye, and Musanze, with plans to open a new branch in Rubavu.
🗓 What’s Next?
According to Mwizerwa Registration for the February 2026 exams opened on 8 December 2025 and will close on 6 January 2026. Candidates who register before 31 December 2025 will benefit from free exam coaching, designed to help them understand the exam structure and prepare with confidence 📚.
The ECL exams will be offered six times a year, greatly reducing waiting periods and helping learners plan their futures more easily.
