Category: Education

In a statement, Airtel Africa Foundation said the Fellowship aims to support deserving students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.

The scholarship program is designed to support students from 14 African countries, including Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, DR Congo, Niger, Chad, Congo B, Gabon, Madagascar and Seychelles.

Starting with an outlay of US$500,000, this program will benefit 10 undergraduate students, for their entire course duration of four years.

Founded in 2024 with a vision to foster a prosperous Africa, the Airtel Africa Foundation is dedicated to advancing digital and financial inclusion across the continent along with key focus on education and environmental protection.

“This Fellowship is the maiden initiative undertaken to enhance educational opportunities for meritorious students, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds, enrolled at IIT M Zanzibar,” the statement reads in part.

The Foundation said that the recipients of the scholarship will be known as ‘Airtel Africa Fellows’. They will receive 100% of their college fees i.e. US$12,000 as per the course fee structure of the Institute for a 4-year program. Additionally, to cover the living expense cost, US$500 will be given to all eligible students.

According to the management, the initiative aims to transform, shape lives and nurture future leaders who will contribute to technological innovation and economic growth of Africa.

“We are pleased to partner with IIT Madras Zanzibar to provide opportunities for young Africans to access quality education. This initiative aims to contribute towards creating a prosperous and sustainable continent. We look forward to creating even more opportunities not just in education, but also in financial and digital inclusion, and environmental protection,” the Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, Dr. Olusegun Ogunsanya said.

Zanzibar’s Minister of Education and Vocational Training, Lela Mohamed Mussa, lauded the fellowship scheme, saying it will support efforts to increase access to quality education to students from across the continent.

“IITM Zanzibar is charting a wonderful path in technical education in the region. Providing access to this high quality education to students from Tanzania and the rest of the continent, who are topping the IITM Zanzibar screening and test processes, through financial assistance, is an important priority for us. We are thankful to this support from Airtel Africa Foundation, which will enhance our own efforts in this direction,” the minister stated.

The Director of IIT Madras, Prof. V. Kamakoti welcomed the partnership with the Airtel Africa Foundation, saying “We are delighted that Airtel Africa Foundation is joining hands with us in this effort. We look forward to welcoming the second cohort of bright young students to the IITM Zanzibar campus this year. We are immensely grateful to Airtel Africa Foundation for providing financial assistance for these future global leaders.”

In this context, the hospital has launched the university in line with Ministerial Order No. 001/MINEDUC/2024, dated April 26, 2024, which authorized AHSU to begin operations and granted it legal status. The order specified that AHSU is permitted to offer Master’s degree programs in anesthesiology, emergency medicine, surgery, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, and pediatrics.

Additionally, AHSU will provide courses in the fields of pharmacy, nursing, midwifery, radiography, and laboratory sciences. The university has started by offering the Bachelor of Science in midwifery course initially enrolling 40 learners selected from1423 applications (2.3% acceptance rate for the midwifery program).

This opportunity is highly advantageous for the selected learners, as they will receive full scholarships, accommodation, and stipends during the course of their studies. The selection process prioritized learners who excelled in high school exams, particularly in biology.

However, due to the large number of applicants, additional written exams and interviews were conducted to identify the top 40 learners who reported on 1st September 2024 and commenced their studies the same week.

Learners will spend their first semester taking theoretical and simulation based learning, with subsequent years spent in hospital-based training at hospitals, among them, Kacyiru hospital, Muhima hospital and King Faisal Hospital.

Some of the learners at the university expressed their excitement during the reporting day, affirming that it will help them achieve their goals in the midwifery field.
During an interview with IGIHE, Kevine Kayihoza Ntawuyifasha, one of the selected learners could not hide her excitement at the opportunity.

“Getting this opportunity is a great blessing; I am now determined to work hard and succeed so that I can help expectant mothers in the future. Since childhood, I wanted to pursue a career in midwifery, but I wasn’t sure where I would study.”

Similarly, her colleague, Nina Shania Kamikazi, said, “It’s a blessing to be among the few selected learners from the many who applied. This is an opportunity I must use to build my future, and I believe this place will help me achieve that.”

Kamikazi also revealed that she has always dreamt of working in the medical field, particularly in midwifery, as she considers it a noble profession and a calling.

Dr. Augustin Sendegeya, Chief Medical Officer at King Faisal Hospital, emphasized that the university is expected to address the shortage of trained medical professionals.
He stated, “We were given the responsibility not only to be a hospital but also to contribute to education. With the resources we have and the strong leadership, we saw the need to establish a university that offers various programs related to medical education.”

He added, “The university will increase the number of healthcare workers, not just in quantity but also in the quality of the services they provide. Based on how we have started and the support available, this is an achievable goal.”

Dr. Sendegeya noted that the Master’s degree programs will be offered at Kibungo Hospital in Ngoma District and Kibuye Hospital in Karongi District. This will enhance the capacity of these hospitals, improving the services provided to the community.

AHSU currently operates at the Kacyiru Executive Apartment buildings, located near King Faisal Hospital.

“We are here as part of an ongoing mission to follow up on universities where Sudanese students are enrolled. Due to conflicts in Sudan, many of our students have relocated to countries like Egypt, Qatar, Nigeria, Uganda, and Rwanda. We came to ensure they are well cared for academically and socially,” he explained.

The delegation visited UMST, which offers programs in medicine, medical laboratory technology, and dentistry, with a student body of over 700, almost all of them from Sudan.

Alnoor praised the university’s facilities, noting that they exceed the standards set back in Sudan. “To be honest, the building, the environment, and the standards are better than what we see back home. The students we spoke to are happy, they study and graduate on time, which is different from what I have seen in other countries where our students are studying,” he added.

The delegation was also highly impressed with Rwanda’s overall hospitality and governance. Alnoor stated, “Rwanda is not only an inspiration to Sudan but to all other African nations on how to transition from colonial rule to a modern, independent state. All African countries have something to learn from this experience.”

Prof. Samir Shaheen, Vice-Chancellor of UMST and a Professor of Pediatric Orthopedics, also expressed satisfaction with the collaboration between Sudan and Rwanda. “We are happy with Rwanda for warmly receiving us. The students and faculty have integrated well into the community. We’re happy to have chosen Rwanda as our destination,” he said.

Established less than one year ago, UMST is now fully recognized as a cross-border university, accepting students from Rwanda and the surrounding region. “We have received full support from the Rwandan government and the Higher Education Council. Our admissions will close on September 14,” Shaheen revealed.

In conclusion, Alnoor emphasized the importance of Sudanese students understanding the proper application procedures for foreign universities to avoid any complications. “Our students here are safe, they study and pass well. I have no doubt that many more will come in the future because the feedback from Sudan is very positive,” he noted.

With the delegation’s glowing remarks, it is clear that the collaboration between Sudan and Rwanda in higher education is flourishing, providing a solid foundation for future academic partnerships.

The results were announced on August 27, 2024, at the headquarters of the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB) in Remera.

The Minister of Education, Gaspard Twagirayezu, disclosed that a total of 202,021 candidates sat for the primary school leaving exams, comprising 111,249 girls and 90,772 boys.

The girls achieved a pass rate of 97%, slightly outperforming the boys, who had a pass rate of 96.6%. Science and Kinyarwanda were the top-performing subjects, though Twagirayezu stressed the need for improvement in Mathematics and English.

In Ordinary Level, boys outperformed girls with a pass rate of 95.8%, compared to 92% for girls. A total of 143,227 students took the exams, including 79,933 girls and 63,294 boys.

Minister Twagirayezu noted that students generally did well in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, while also identifying areas requiring further attention.

Among the 137,052 students who passed from Ordinary Level, 52.8% were placed in general education schools, 40.5% in technical and vocational schools, 4.7% in teacher training colleges (TTC), 1.8% in accounting, and 0.2% in early childhood education programs.

Lucky Fabrice Igiraneza from Pioneer School emerged as the top performer among Primary School leavers, followed by Alliance Igeno from Irerero Academy in Kamonyi, Benita Kirezi Remezo from Ecole Autonome de Butare, Senga Nshuti Davi from Kigali Parents School, and Vanessa Kazubwenge Mahirwe from Ecole Espoir de l’Avenir.

In the Ordinary Level category, Terimbere Ineza Alliah Ange Steven from Luccé Notre Dame de Cîteaux was the overall best performer, followed by Denys Prince Tuyisenge from Hope Haven, Aaron Twarimitswe from Efotec Kanombe, Happiness Abeza from FAWE Girls’ School, and Jean de Dieu Niyonzima from the Educational Institute for Blind Children in Kibeho.

Each of the top performers received a laptop and had their tuition for the entire year covered by Umwarimu SACCO. They were also provided with school supplies for the whole year.

The next academic year will begin on September 9, 2024, and end on June 27, 2025.

To check their grades, students can visit the National Examination and School Inspection Authority (NESA) website. Alternatively, if using a feature phone, they can send their code to 8888, after which their grades and the school they have been placed in will be displayed immediately.

Deny Prince, a student at Hope Haven Christian School in Kigali, was crowned on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the competition held at the University of Witwatersrand.

He was one of six students from Rwanda who participated in the contest, which kicked off on August 10, 2024.

In addition to the gold medal, the Rwandan team, trained by the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Rwanda, also secured a silver medal, three bronze medals, and several PAMO Girls Bronze Medals.

Thirty African countries participated in the competition, providing young talent with a platform to showcase their exceptional mathematics skills.

In a statement released on Tuesday, August, 20, AIMS Rwanda revealed that the victory at the competition followed a series of preparations done in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and other partners.

The organisation and its partners conduct a rigorous selection process across secondary schools in Rwanda to identify top mathematical talent.

From an initial pool of approximately 40,000 students, a series of three competitive rounds whittled down the participants to a final team of 23 students who represent the nation in regional and international competitions.

AIMS Rwanda noted that the Rwandan team’s journey to success began earlier in the year with a strong performance at the East African Mathematical Olympiad (EAMO), where they secured first place out of eight countries.

The team also participated in the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), where the students gained valuable experience on the global stage, bringing home four honourable mentions.

“This remarkable outcome is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the students, as well as the collaborative efforts of AIMS Rwanda, the Ministry of Education, the University of Rwanda, the National Examination and School Inspection Authority (NESA), Jane Street, and the University of Waterloo,” the organisation said in a statement.

Prof. Sam Yala, AIMS Rwanda Centre President and AIMS Network President, termed the victory a big win for Rwanda.

“We are proud of our students’ achievements,” he said. “This Gold medal is not just a victory for the team but for the entire nation. It demonstrates the immense potential of Rwandan youth in STEM fields. We are committed to nurturing these talents through our outreach activities, as we advance mathematical excellence in Rwanda.”

AIMS Rwanda identifies, trains, and coaches promising young mathematicians. Through its programs, the institute aims to contribute to the development of Rwanda’s mathematical landscape.

In a communication to the incoming students, UR expressed enthusiasm for their achievements.

“Congratulations on your admission to the University of Rwanda. Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and we are thrilled to welcome you to the University of Rwanda Community,” the statement read in part.

The preparatory program aims to support a smooth transition from high school to university. It will help students become familiar with campus facilities, academic expectations, and provide essential skills for a positive learning experience. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for students to meet academic staff and peers.

“This program will allow you to familiarize yourself with your campus, its resources, and academic expectations. It will also equip you with skills that foster a positive learning experience during university studies,” the university stated.

Attendance is compulsory, with the university emphasizing the importance of full participation.

“This is a compulsory program, and we highly encourage you to participate in all scheduled sessions. This will equip you with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in your studies,” the letter explained.

Students are expected to arrive at their campuses on August 10th or 11th, 2024. The university has arranged transportation from the nearest bus station and will provide accommodation, meals, and necessary stationery. Students are advised to bring personal sanitary facilities and sportswear.

For those facing significant obstacles to attending, the university has requested notification via email to the respective campus focal persons.

The University of Rwanda’s preparatory program aims to ensure that new students start their academic journey with the necessary support and resources.

The exams were launched at Groupe SCholaire Gisozi, located in Gasabo District, where 465 candidates, including 239 boys and 226 girls, are expected to sit the exams.

Nationwide, 202,999 students, comprising 91,189 boys and 111,810 girls, will sit the exams at 1,118 sites across the country, concluding on July 10, 2024.

The exams cover five subjects: Mathematics, Kinyarwanda, English, Science and Elementary Technology (SET), and General Knowledge and Religion.

On the first day, candidates sit for two exams, followed by two more the next day, and end with one exam on the final day.

In his remarks, Twagirayezu noted that unlike previous years where education was affected by COVID-19, this year had no significant issues, and students are well-prepared and expected to perform well.

“Exams are a way to assess the students’ understanding. We will continue to review the outcomes, correct what didn’t go well, and reinforce what did,” he said.

In addition to ensuring children attend exams on time, the Minister emphasized the crucial role of parents in supporting their children’s education, working alongside teachers to foster learning, as educating the nation requires collective effort.

“When it comes to exams, which is an annual event, we ask parents to help their children review their lessons, ensure they get enough rest, and arrive at the exam sites on time,” he said.

In his message to the students, Twagirayezu encouraged them to stay calm and perform well, assuring them that the exams were prepared by their teachers, so they should not be fearful.

Regarding students with disabilities, stated that provisions were made according to their needs, including large print materials, readers, and extended time for completion, with a team ready to provide assistance wherever necessary.

As Twagirayezu launched the exams at G.S Gisozi, the State Secretary in MINEDUC, Irere Claudette, launched them at Groupe Scholaire Institute Filip Simaldone in Nyarugenge District.

Officials from various institutions under the Ministry of Education also inaugurated the exams in different parts of the country.

Dr. Bahati Bernard, the Head of the National Examinations and School Inspection Authority (NESA), was in Nyaruguru District at Groupe Scholaire Muhambara.

Rwanda TVET Board (RTB) Director General, Eng. Paul Umukunzi, was at Groupe Scholaire Rusongati in Rubavu, and the Director General in charge of Education Policy and Analysis in the Ministry of Education, Rose Baguma, launched the exams at Groupe Scholaire Mayange in Bugesera District.

Rwanda Education Board Director, Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana, was at Groupe Scholaire Nyakarenzo in Rusizi District, while the Head of the Quality Assurance Department in NESA, Mr Kavutse Vianney Augustine, inaugurated the exams at Groupe Scholaire Musenyi in Nyagatare District

Last year, MINEDUC reported that girls had a higher pass rate compared to boys. Out of 201,679 students who sat the exams, 91.09% passed, with girls making up 55.29% of the pass rate and boys 44.71%.

Global Arcus provides these opportunities worldwide, and in Rwanda, they are collaborating with Mega Global Link to make them more accessible to Rwandans.

To be considered for a scholarship to study in India, you need to visit Global Arcus’ website and take an assessment that will help determine your eligibility. This assessment is scheduled to open on Sunday, July 7 and close on Saturday, July 20, 2024.

The opportunities are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies in various fields, including technology, business, law, health, and more, at different state universities in India, which offer internationally recognized degrees.

If you pass this initial assessment, you will receive a certificate confirming your success. The next step is to visit the Mega Global Link office to proceed with the registration process, obtain a visa, and more.

Those who pass the assessment on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at 2:00 PM, along with anyone seeking information (students or parents), will have a chance to meet with Sachin Shekhar, the CEO of Global Arcus from India. He will explain the process and answer any questions you may have.

Additionally, successful candidates will be given a free flight ticket to either Mumbai or Delhi Airport in India, from where they will proceed to their respective schools. Classes will start on August 16, 2024, and there will be a team from Global Arcus ready to monitor their progress daily.

Mega Global Link has a proven track record of providing various services for those wishing to study abroad, whether in Canada, America, or Europe, assisting not only students but also those going for work or tourism. Many have successfully achieved their goals through their help.

The Capital Market University Challenge is a competition designed to familiarize students from universities and higher learning institutions with the capital market business. It aims to cultivate a culture of saving and investment among participants, preparing them to become future investors and professionals in the industry.

Among the standout winners of the 2024 competition were Jean Pierre Nshimiyimana, Esther Ashimwe, Vainqueur Irasubiza, Alphonse Majyambere, and Joel Rwambibi.

The Capital Market University Challenge encourages students to embrace the culture of saving and investment that ensures sustainability. Participants are urged to explore opportunities in capital market products such as shares and bonds, as well as to consider collective investment through savings and investment clubs.

“This award serves as motivation for students like myself still in university to begin thinking about investments and job creation through savings,” said Jean Pierre Nshimiyimana, the overall winner and a student at the University of Kigali. He plans to initiate an ICT-related project with the award he received.

Esther Ashimwe, a student from the University of Rwanda and second-place winner, urged more female participation in future editions of the Capital Market University Challenge. “This competition boosts the confidence of girls, and increased female participation will lead to greater investment in the capital market,” she asserted.

Thapelo Tsheole, CEO of the Capital Market Authority, highlighted the scale of participation in the 2024 Challenge, with 760 students from 37 universities across Rwanda taking part. He emphasized the programme’s role in nurturing future investors and professionals to the growth and sustainability of Rwanda’s capital market industry.

“As Rwanda strives for self-reliance through mobilizing domestic resources for socio-economic development, active engagement in the capital market becomes increasingly vital,” Tsheole stated. He underscored the importance of investing in educational initiatives targeting students, young professionals, and potential investors.

Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, CEO of the Rwanda Stock Exchange, emphasized the benefits of investing in the stock market, describing it as a form of saving that yields annual returns and appreciates in value over time.

Mr. Tsheole thanked partners such as the Bank of Kigali, BK Capital, and the Rwanda Stock Exchange for their commitment to organizing yet another successful edition of the Capital Market University Challenge.