Effects of Curriculum Reforms on Learners' Outcomes in Mathematics Subjects in Public Secondary Schools in Rwanda: A Case of Nyabihu District

Abstract: This study examined the effect of curriculum changes on students’ mathematics performance in public secondary schools in Nyabihu District, focusing on students’ outcomes, teachers’ involvement, and the influence of curriculum improvements on learning. A descriptive research design combining quantitative and qualitative approaches was used. The study involved 230 participants, including head teachers, deans of studies, teachers, and students. Teachers were selected through purposive sampling, while students were chosen using simple random sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using content analysis for qualitative data and SPSS and Microsoft Excel for quantitative data. The findings indicate that the revised mathematics curriculum significantly improves students’ understanding and performance. Specifically, 65.6% of respondents agreed that the new curriculum enhances students’ comprehension of mathematics, with a high mean score of 4.36 (SD = 0.94). Additionally, 73.7% agreed that teacher and administrative support positively influence students’ performance, reflected in an even higher mean of 4.48 (SD = 0.89). The study further showed that teachers’ focus on implementing the curriculum improves learners’ outcomes (mean = 3.43, SD = 1.21). Similarly, students taught by teachers trained under the new curriculum demonstrated better performance (mean = 3.42, SD = 1.11). Overall, the study concluded that curriculum reforms enhance both teaching effectiveness and student achievement in mathematics. It recommends that the Rwanda Education Board (REB) and school administrators strengthen support and monitoring of curriculum implementation, while ensuring that students are well-oriented and adapt effectively to the revised teaching approaches. Keywords: Curriculum Reforms, Learners’ Outcomes, Mathematics, Public Secondary Schools, Nyabihu District, Rwanda. Title: Effects of Curriculum Reforms on Learners’ Outcomes in Mathematics Subjects in Public Secondary Schools in Rwanda: A Case of Nyabihu District Author: Niyomuhoza Sabine, Dr. Andala Opiyo International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026 Page No: 37-44 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 09-April-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19483304 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/effects-of-curriculum-reforms-on-learners-outcomes-in-mathematics-subjects-in-public-secondary-schools-in-rwanda-a-case-of-nyabihu-district