Don Bosco Gatenga TSS Electrical Students Visit Nyabarongo Hydropower Plant

On June 24, 2025, the Job Service Office of Don Bosco Gatenga Technical Secondary School organized an educational study visit for Level 5 students of the Electrical Technology department to the Nyabarongo Hydropower Plant. The visit aimed to enhance students’ understanding of how theoretical knowledge is applied in real-world energy production systems.

The visit began at the dam section of the plant, where students were welcomed by a mechanical technician. She provided a comprehensive introduction to the role of the dam in the hydropower process, explaining where the water comes from, how it is stored, and the key functions and specifications of the dam.

Following the dam tour, students proceeded to the powerhouse, where they were warmly received by Engineer Theophile. He gave an in-depth explanation of how electricity is generated from the flow of water. The students were then taken on a guided tour of the entire power plant, where they saw and learned about various critical components, including turbines, the control room, the cooling system, and generators.

One of the students, Cyuzuzo, expressed his excitement about the visit. “I used to think the powerhouse was just a simple building. But today I was amazed to see how many parts it has and how complex it is. We saw with our own eyes the turbines, the control system, and more. This study visit was very important to us. What we used to learn in theory, we have now seen in practice. I believe it will help us a lot in the national exams.”

Mr. Jean Luc, a teacher in the Electrical Technology department, also shared his reflections. “This study visit was not only beneficial for the students but also for us as teachers. It helped us link the theory we teach in class to practical application. We also had the chance to learn from experienced engineers working in the field. We are grateful to our school administration for organizing this visit, and we hope such opportunities can be increased in the future.”

The study visit to Nyabarongo Hydropower Plant was a significant step in bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry experience, equipping students with the knowledge and motivation to excel both academically and professionally.