Our Theory of Change
How we transform classrooms into systemic change through a 6-stage leadership pathway.
The Crisis We're Solving
Burundi's education crisis isn't about access—83% of children start primary school.
The crisis is completion and quality.
before Grade 9
lack qualified teachers
ratio
by Grade 6
The root cause? A leadership gap.
LEAD for Burundi exists to close that gap.
The 6-Stage Leadership Pathway
From Individual Impact to System Transformation
RECRUIT
30 fellows selected from 500+ applicants. We recruit for leadership potential, commitment to service, cultural fluency (Kirundi + French), and community roots.
TRAIN
Pedagogy, collective leadership, community engagement, Ubuntu-based teaching. Fellows learn classroom management, literacy instruction, parent mobilization, cultural humility, and coaching.
DEPLOY
Two-year placement teaching full-time (5-6 classes daily). Fellows live in placement communities—daily teaching, after-school programs, parent engagement, community mobilization.
SUPPORT
Coaches observe classrooms, provide feedback, support growth. We offer instructional coaching, emotional support, leadership development, and community navigation.
MULTIPLY
Alumni coach new fellows, train teachers, design curricula, lead schools. Key pathways: school leadership, teacher training, curriculum design, community organizing, education entrepreneurship.
LEAD THE SYSTEM
Alumni in system-level roles shape policies, budgets, and teacher development. Impact: policy reform, teacher pipeline redesign, curriculum overhaul, resource allocation, national advocacy.
Why This Model Works
Teach For All Global Network
Measurable student gains within 2-3 years. A proven model adapted across diverse contexts for over 17 years.
Adapted to Burundi's Context
- 100% Indigenous Leadership
- Ubuntu-Centered Pedagogy
- Ministry of Education Partnership
- $8,500/fellow (56% below regional average)
The Alumni Multiplier Effect
This is why it compounds.
See where we're headed over the next 5 years.
Explore our milestones from 2025 to 2030—and how you can be part of the journey.
View Our Roadmap