RISE Program Manager at Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Rwanda – Complete Application Guide (Deadline: March 30, 2026)

Summary

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Rwanda is recruiting a RISE Program Manager in Kigali to lead a multi-year secondary education initiative supporting out-of-school youth. The role requires a Master’s degree and at least five years of project management experience, preferably within international NGOs. Applications must be submitted via email by March 30, 2026. This guide explains the requirements, responsibilities, benefits, and step-by-step application process.

 

Introduction: A Leadership Opportunity Transforming Youth Education in Rwanda

Across Rwanda and much of the developing world, thousands of young people leave school early due to economic challenges, social pressures, or lack of opportunity. Many of these youth still possess enormous potential but require targeted support, education pathways, and skills training to succeed.

International development organizations are increasingly investing in secondary education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs that help young people re-enter learning systems and build employable skills.

One of the most significant initiatives currently emerging in Rwanda is the RISE Secondary Education Project, an anticipated multi-year initiative focused on out-of-school youth and education recovery pathways.

To lead this important effort, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Rwanda is recruiting a RISE Program Manager based in Kigali.

This position represents far more than a typical project management job. It is a strategic leadership role responsible for guiding the design, launch, implementation, and evaluation of a national education program that could shape the future of youth development in Rwanda.

For experienced professionals in education, international development, project management, or NGO programming, this opportunity offers:

• Leadership of a large multi-year education initiative
• Collaboration with international donors and development partners
• Influence on policy-level education outcomes
• Career growth within one of the world’s most respected humanitarian organizations

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through everything you need to know before applying, including:

• Detailed job overview
• Eligibility requirements
• Key benefits and career value
• Step-by-step application process
• Required documents
• Insider application tips
• Important deadlines
• Official verification sources

If you are looking for a meaningful career opportunity that combines leadership, education reform, and international development, this role deserves serious consideration.

Overview of the RISE Program Manager Opportunity at CRS Rwanda

Category	Details
Job Title	RISE Program Manager
Organization	Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
Department	Programming
Job Band	10
Location	Kigali, Rwanda
Reports To	Country Manager
Contract Type	Full-time
Application Deadline	March 30, 2026
Required Languages	English, Kinyarwanda (French is an advantage)

The RISE Program Manager will oversee the implementation of a Secondary Education program targeting out-of-school youth in Rwanda.

This position sits at the intersection of education programming, project leadership, partnership management, and donor compliance.

The selected candidate will ensure that the project:

• Meets CRS program quality standards
• Aligns with Government of Rwanda education priorities
• Delivers measurable learning and social outcomes
• Complies with donor and financial accountability frameworks

Because the project is expected to operate over multiple years, the role involves long-term strategic planning and program sustainability.

About Catholic Relief Services (CRS)

Catholic Relief Services is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States.

Founded in 1943, CRS works in more than 100 countries worldwide, delivering humanitarian aid, development programs, and emergency assistance to vulnerable populations.

CRS programs focus on areas such as:

• Education
• Agriculture
• Health
• HIV/AIDS
• Emergency response
• Microfinance
• Peacebuilding
• Youth empowerment

The organization operates with a clear mission:

To assist poor and vulnerable people overseas, regardless of race, religion, or nationality.

Importantly, CRS welcomes staff from all faiths and backgrounds who share a commitment to human dignity and development.

CRS programs in Rwanda often work closely with:

• Government ministries
• Local civil society organizations
• International donors
• UN agencies
• Community-based partners

Because of its reputation for high program quality and strong accountability systems, CRS experience is widely valued across the global development sector.

Overview of the RISE Secondary Education Project

The RISE project focuses on secondary education access and reintegration for youth who are out of school.

Across many communities, adolescents leave school due to:

• Poverty
• Family responsibilities
• Early marriage
• Migration
• Lack of school resources

The RISE initiative aims to address these challenges by:

• Supporting alternative learning pathways
• Strengthening secondary education access
• Connecting youth with technical and vocational training
• Improving transition from education to employment

As Program Manager, you will guide the project throughout its entire lifecycle, including:

1. Project design
2. Program startup
3. Implementation
4. Monitoring and evaluation
5. Learning and adaptation
6. Program closure

This role ensures that the project produces sustainable education outcomes aligned with national education goals.

Key Responsibilities of the RISE Program Manager

The Program Manager plays both strategic and operational roles.

1. Program Leadership

You will lead the overall design and execution of the RISE program.

Responsibilities include:

• Overseeing program planning and implementation
• Ensuring alignment with CRS program quality standards
• Coordinating activities across multiple stakeholders
• Ensuring program objectives are achieved

2. Financial Oversight and Budget Management

The Program Manager ensures responsible use of project funds.

Tasks include:

• Reviewing project budgets regularly
• Monitoring expenditures
• Ensuring financial compliance with donor requirements
• Supporting partner financial reporting

Strong financial oversight helps maintain donor trust and program sustainability.

3. Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL)

CRS programs emphasize evidence-based impact.

You will:

• Coordinate monitoring and evaluation systems
• Ensure learning accompanies implementation
• Support project evaluations
• Document best practices and lessons learned

This ensures the program continuously improves and contributes to global development knowledge.

4. Staff Management and Team Leadership

The Program Manager supervises several key team members, including:

• Youth Education Specialist
• MEAL Program Manager
• Safeguarding Lead

Responsibilities include:

• Coaching staff
• Supporting professional development
• Managing team performance
• Ensuring staff wellbeing

Creating a supportive work environment improves both program outcomes and team productivity.

5. Partnership Development

Strong partnerships are essential in development programming.

The Program Manager will:

• Strengthen collaboration with partner organizations
• Support partner capacity development
• Apply CRS partnership tools and frameworks
• Ensure shared accountability across stakeholders

6. Representation and Stakeholder Engagement

You will represent the project with key partners including:

• Donors
• International NGOs
• UN agencies
• Government institutions
• Local community organizations

Effective representation strengthens project credibility and influence.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet several minimum requirements.

Education

Applicants must hold:

• Master’s degree in:
• Education
• Social Sciences
• International Relations
• Related field

Relevant experience may substitute partially for formal education.

Professional Experience

Candidates must have:

• Minimum 5 years of project management experience
• At least 2–3 years working in education programs, TVET, or youth development
• Experience managing complex development projects

Experience within international NGOs is strongly preferred.

Language Requirements

Applicants must be fluent in:

• English
• Kinyarwanda

French language ability is considered an advantage.

Travel Requirement

The role requires:

• Up to 35% travel

Travel may include visits to project locations across Rwanda.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies

Successful candidates typically demonstrate several professional capabilities.

Analytical and Strategic Skills

You must be able to:

• Analyze complex program data
• Identify challenges
• Develop practical solutions

Relationship Management

CRS projects involve diverse stakeholders.

You should demonstrate:

• Strong communication skills
• Diplomacy
• Ability to build trust across cultures

Leadership and Facilitation

The role requires:

• Team leadership
• Meeting facilitation
• Training and capacity building

Results Orientation

Strong candidates are:

• Proactive
• Resourceful
• Focused on measurable outcomes

Preferred Qualifications

Although not mandatory, the following qualifications strengthen an application.

Grants Management Experience

Candidates with experience managing donor-funded projects particularly those funded by public donors are highly valued.

Proposal Writing Experience

The ability to write technical proposals and project concept notes is an advantage.

Partnership Experience

Experience collaborating with:

• Local NGOs
• Government agencies
• International organizations

is beneficial.

MEAL Experience

Monitoring and evaluation expertise helps ensure programs produce measurable impact.

Technical Skills

Proficiency with the following tools is expected:

• Microsoft Word
• Excel
• PowerPoint
• Information management systems
• Online conferencing platforms

Benefits and Career Value

While compensation details are not publicly listed, CRS positions typically include competitive development-sector benefits.

Potential benefits may include:

• Competitive salary aligned with NGO pay scales
• Professional development opportunities
• Exposure to international donors
• Leadership experience in major development programs
• Networking with global development professionals

For professionals pursuing long-term careers in:

• International development
• Education programming
• NGO leadership
• Humanitarian assistance

CRS experience is widely recognized and respected.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these steps carefully when applying.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Updated CV (maximum 3 pages)
• One-page cover letter
• Completed CRS application form

Step 2: Combine Files

All documents must be combined into one PDF file.

Step 3: Email Application

Send your application to:

RW_HR@crs.org

Step 4: Subject Line Format

Your email subject line must include:

Your Full Name – RISE Project Manager

Step 5: Submit Before Deadline

Applications must be submitted before March 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM.

Late applications may not be considered.

Required Safeguarding Statement

Applicants must include the following statement in their cover letter:

“By applying to this job, I understand and acknowledge that CRS requires its staff to treat all people with dignity and respect and to actively prevent harassment, abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking. Further, I understand that if I am a successful candidate, I will be subject to a comprehensive background check, and my personal/professional references will be asked to evaluate my behaviors related to the above safeguarding-related topics.”

Failure to include this statement may affect application eligibility.

Required Documents Checklist

Document	Requirement
CV	Maximum 3 pages
Cover Letter	Maximum 1 page
CRS Application Form	Completed
Safeguarding Statement	Included in cover letter
Combined PDF	All documents in one file

 

Important Tips for a Successful Application

1. Tailor Your CV

Highlight experience related to:

• Education programs
• Youth development
• Project management

2. Emphasize Leadership

CRS values leadership skills.

Show examples of:

• Managing teams
• Leading projects
• Building partnerships

3. Demonstrate Impact

Use measurable results where possible.

Example:

Instead of writing:

“Managed education project.”

Write:

“Managed a secondary education program supporting 2,000 out-of-school youth across three districts.”

4. Highlight Donor Experience

If you have worked with donors such as:

• USAID
• EU
• UNICEF
• World Bank

make sure to mention it clearly.

5. Show Alignment with CRS Values

CRS places strong emphasis on:

• Integrity
• Accountability
• Collaboration
• Learning

Your application should demonstrate these values.

Deadline and Application Timeline

Stage	Estimated Timeline
Application Deadline	March 30, 2026
Shortlisting	Early April 2026
Interviews	April 2026
Final Selection	Late April 2026

Due to high interest, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Official Verification and Source Links

Applicants should always verify details through official channels.

Official application email:

RW_HR@crs.org

Application Form

You can also confirm information through:

• CRS official website
• CRS Rwanda offices
• Professional development job boards

Never submit personal information through unofficial websites.

Related Opportunities to Explore

If you are interested in international education or development careers, you may also want to explore:

• Fully funded international scholarships
• Study abroad opportunities
• Global fellowship programs
• International NGO careers
• Education leadership training programs

These opportunities can strengthen your profile for future global careers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this job open to international applicants?

CRS prioritizes citizens or permanent residents of countries where they operate, so Rwandan applicants are strongly encouraged.

Is remote work allowed?

The position is based in Kigali, and travel within Rwanda is required.

What level of experience is required?

Applicants must have at least five years of project management experience, including work in education programs.

Do I need NGO experience?

NGO experience is strongly preferred but not strictly mandatory if relevant project management experience is demonstrated.

What languages are required?

English and Kinyarwanda are required.

French is an advantage.

Will CRS contact all applicants?

No.

Due to high application volume, only shortlisted candidates are contacted.

Final Thoughts

The RISE Program Manager position at Catholic Relief Services Rwanda represents a meaningful opportunity for experienced professionals committed to improving access to education.

By leading a multi-year secondary education program, the selected candidate will help expand opportunities for out-of-school youth and contribute to Rwanda’s long-term development goals.

If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about education, youth empowerment, and international development, consider submitting your application before the March 30, 2026 deadline.

As always, carefully verify details through official sources and prepare a thoughtful, well-structured application.

 

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