Rwandans’ Motivation to Learn and use English as a Medium of Instruction
Dr Cyprien Tabaro

Abstract
Studies have shown that motivation is crucial in the process of learning languages, and it remains one of the main influencing factors in L2 language learning. Though motivation is one of the influencing factors in second language learning, there are other aspects to consider when a country has to choose a language used in education. After many years of using French and Kinyarwanda in education, in 2008 the Rwandan government declared English to be the sole medium of instruction. Taking into account that four years have now passed since the implementation of this new language policy, this study was conducted in Kigali city in the academic year 2012/2013 and it involved secondary school learners and educational officials. It aimed to discover what motivates Rwandans to learn and use English. Findings revealed that Rwandans are aware of benefits they can enjoy from mastering and using English, which range from economic affairs, world globalisation, political and diplomatic relations among others.

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