The 43 beneficiaries will study at various Brazilian universities, where they are expected to strengthen their expertise and later contribute to Rwanda’s development priorities through knowledge and skills transfer.
On July 2, the Higher Education Council (HEC), through its Director of the Bursary, Loan and Fund Management Unit, Désiré Gacinya, took part in a pre-departure orientation session for the scholars.
The briefing equipped the students with guidance on academic expectations, cultural adjustment, financial management, and settling into life in Brazil ahead of their studies.
Brazil’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Irene Vida Gala, said the cohort represents a milestone in bilateral academic relations, noting that they will play a key role in strengthening cooperation between institutions in both countries.
“When I arrived here not too long ago, my main concern was to build stronger connections between universities in Brazil and Rwanda, as well as with the Higher Education Council. I believe we have made significant progress within one year,” she said.
She expressed confidence that the students will return with valuable expertise, research networks, and partnerships that could benefit both Rwanda and Brazil.
Ambassador Vida Gala also highlighted ongoing efforts to deepen university-to-university collaboration, saying progress had been made since her arrival in Kigali in late 2025.
The scholarship beneficiaries said they are eager to take up the opportunity and contribute to Rwanda’s development upon completion of their studies.
The pre-departure orientation session for the scholars was held on July 2, 2026. Brazil’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Irene Vida Gala, said the cohort represents a milestone in bilateral academic relations, noting that they will play a key role in strengthening cooperation between institutions in both countries.The 43 beneficiaries will study at various Brazilian universities, where they are expected to strengthen their expertise and later contribute to Rwanda’s development priorities through knowledge and skills transfer.
The graduation ceremony brought together distinguished guests, including the Guest of Honour, Dr. Mutezigaju Flora, Deputy Director General of the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB), the Chairperson and members of the Wellspring Academy Board of Directors, the Senior Pastor of Christian Life Assembly, the Executive Director of the Wellspring Foundation for Education, alumni, parents, education partners, staff, and students.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the School Principal, Deputy Principal Mr. George Wilson welcomed guests and reflected on the significance of the occasion.
“Graduation is more than the completion of secondary education. It is a celebration of perseverance, character formation, faith, and leadership,” he said.
He also highlighted the school’s remarkable journey since its establishment in 2007 and its transition to the Cambridge International Curriculum in 2014, a milestone that expanded opportunities for students to access internationally recognised education while maintaining a strong Christian foundation.
This year, Wellspring Academy graduated 77 students, comprising 30 girls and 47 boys. To date, the school has produced 572 graduates, a growing community of graduates making a positive impact in their communities and beyond
The academy emphasised its vision of producing a new generation of servant leaders to bless Rwanda and display the best of Rwanda to the world.
The Class of 2026 distinguished itself not only through academic excellence but also through leadership, spiritual growth, and community engagement. As part of their holistic educational journey, students actively participated in leadership development and character formation.
During the Leadership and Reflection Camp held in Nyamasheke District in September 2025, they strengthened their leadership capacity through Bible study, mentorship, and team-building activities.
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Mutezigaju Flora congratulated the Class of 2026 and encouraged them to apply the knowledge, skills, and values they have acquired to contribute to Rwanda’s development.
She commended Wellspring Academy for producing disciplined, ethical, and purpose-driven graduates, emphasising that quality education remains a cornerstone of national transformation.
The graduating class was also recognised for strong academic performance and active participation in regional and international learning opportunities, including Pan-African academic programmes that broadened their perspectives and strengthened their global outlook.
Academically, the Class of 2026 was commended for its strong performance and participation in external academic platforms, including regional initiatives such as Pan-African programs.
During the ceremony, speakers underscored the importance of discipline, leadership, faith, and service as defining qualities of Wellspring Academy graduates, encouraging them to use their education to influence their professions and communities positively.
Throughout its 20-year journey, Wellspring Academy has remained committed to its mission of educating and equipping students to become highly skilled, Godly leaders, and agents of community transformation.
The school continues to equip learners with the knowledge, values, and skills needed to serve God and society with integrity and purpose.
Deputy Principal George Wilson delivers remarks reflecting on 20 years of academic excellence and transformation.
Graduates of the Class of 2026 joyfully mark the completion of their secondary education journey.Proud alumni of Wellspring Academy joined the graduation ceremony, celebrating 20 years of shaping Christ-centred servant leaders.Guest of Honour Dr. Mutezigaju Flora congratulated the Class of 2026 and encouraged them to apply the knowledge, skills, and values they have acquired to contribute to Rwanda’s development.Pastor Amos Kajuga addresses graduates and guests during the graduation ceremony.Wellspring Academy students stage a performance during their graduation ceremony in Kigali.This year, Wellspring Academy graduated 77 students, comprising 30 girls and 47 boys. To date, the school has produced 572 graduates, a growing community of graduates making a positive impact in their communities and beyond
The celebration brought together stakeholders from across the education sector to reflect on a decade of achievements in delivering quality, Christ-centered education while nurturing young people to become responsible leaders guided by strong academic and moral values.
The day-long event featured worship sessions, prayers, cultural performances, Bible presentations, student testimonies, and speeches by staff, leaders and alumni, highlighting the impact ACE has made on learners and communities over the past ten years.
As Guest of Honour, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education Charles Karakye congratulated New Life Schools, which use the ACE programme, on reaching the milestone and commended the institution for its contribution to Rwanda’s education sector.
He praised the organization’s commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering the holistic development of learners, noting that academic success should go hand in hand with character formation and leadership development.
“Quality education is not only about academic achievement; it is about raising responsible citizens with the values, skills, and character needed to contribute positively to society,” Karakye said.
He further emphasized the importance of partnerships between government institutions, schools, parents, and development partners in ensuring that every child receives an education that prepares them for the future.
Karakye acknowledged ACE Rwanda’s role in supporting national education goals and encouraged educators to continue placing learners at the center of the teaching process while equipping them with the knowledge and values needed to thrive in an increasingly dynamic world.
Speaking during the celebration, the Executive Director of Africa New Life Ministries Rev. Fred Isaac Katagwa reflected on the institution’s journey and the vision that inspired its establishment a decade ago.
“Today, we raise our voice to declare, just like Prophet Samuel declared, ‘This far the Lord has brought us,’” Katagwa said.
He recounted how the initiative began with a small group of parents and church leaders seeking an education model that would combine academic excellence with Christian values and leadership development for their children.
Reflecting on the mission behind the initiative, he said, “Ten years ago, this journey began with a simple but profound conviction, a conviction that every child deserves an education. Every child should dream of where they want to go.”
Throughout the celebration, students showcased their talents through traditional dances, music performances, Bible speaking presentations, alumni and personal testimonies that demonstrated the positive impact the ACE model has had on their academic, personal, and spiritual growth.
Beyond academic achievement, the ACE model has continued to open global opportunities for its learners. Through the successful equivalency of qualifications with the National Examinations and School Inspection Authority (NESA), ACE graduates from New Life Leadership Academy have gone on to pursue higher education and professional opportunities in Rwanda and internationally, including in Germany, the United States, Canada, Uganda, and the United Arab Emirates.
These success stories reflect the strength of an education model that equips learners with both academic excellence and the character needed to thrive in diverse environments.
Leaders from Africa New Life Ministries and ACE emphasized that education extends beyond classroom instruction and should prepare learners to become servant leaders capable of making meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation.
The accrediting body representative, Ms. Joyce Owor, Regional Manager for the Accelerated Education Enterprise (AEE), congratulated Africa New Life on its outstanding leadership in implementing the ACE curriculum in Rwanda.
She highlighted the remarkable growth of ACE schools across the region, including Tanzania, Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, and now Rwanda and noted the program’s success in producing well-rounded, focused, and high-integrity graduates.
Representatives from schools implementing the ACE curriculum across Rwanda attended the anniversary celebration, reflecting the program’s growing influence and its commitment to holistic education.
While maintaining its Christian foundation and internationally recognized learning approach, ACE works to contextualize its curriculum to the Rwandan environment.
This includes integrating Rwanda’s history, values, and national identity into the learning experience, helping students develop a deeper understanding of their country’s journey while nurturing responsible citizenship, cultural appreciation, and leadership grounded in both faith and national values.
As the schools enter their second decade, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding access to quality Christ-centered education and equipping future generations with the knowledge, values, and leadership skills needed to succeed.
For many attendees, the anniversary served as both a celebration of past achievements and a renewed commitment to the future. The occasion concluded with optimism that the ACE curriculum will continue transforming lives and shaping leaders who will positively impact Rwanda and beyond.
The milestone marked a decade in which New Life Christian Academy–Kigali (NLCA-K) and New Life Leadership Academy (NLA) have shaped academically excellent, Christ-centered leaders through the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE).Parents at the 10th anniversary celebration of ACE Rwanda shared appreciation for the school’s role in nurturing discipline, values, and academic excellence in their children.Rev. Fred Isaac Katagwa recounted the vision and commitment that laid the foundation for ACE Rwanda’s growth over the past decade.Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education Charles Karakye commended ACE Rwanda for a decade of providing quality, values-based education during its 10th anniversary celebration.Staff members were honored with awards in recognition of their hard work, service, and impact in shaping learners over the past ten years.Throughout the celebration, students showcased their talents through traditional dances, music performances.L-R, Director of Schools, Africa New Life Ministries, Sylvia Kendiisa Kaweela; Executive Director, Africa New Life Ministries, Rev. Fred Isaac Katagwa; Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary, Charles Karakye; New Life Leadership Academy, Principal, Cyiza Moses; New Life Christian Academy Kigali, Principal, Ms Ingrid J Kaneza
The camp, which targets children aged between 10 and 16 years, will be held at NSL in Bugesera from July 20 to 31, 2026.
Steven E. Karangwa, the Chief Executive Officer of K2 Group, which collaborates with Ntare Louisenlund School, told IGIHE that preparations for the 2026 edition of the summer camp are already at an advanced stage.
“We wanted to contribute to the development of knowledge among Rwandans, which ultimately feeds into the country’s economic growth,” he said.
He noted that during the holiday period, the program will focus on teaching children Rwanda’s history and governance, along with other skills-based learning activities.
“People often say that a tree is best straightened while it is still young. If we are already offering training to adults, what more can we do for younger children, especially when they are on holiday after completing their studies? That is why we decided that Rwanda needs a summer camp to help shape responsible young citizens who will contribute positively to the country,” he added.
Children will also have time to relax mentally, as activities will be delivered through games and interactive experiences rather than a formal classroom environment.
Participants will come from various schools across Rwanda and the diaspora. In 2025, the camp attracted children from six countries.
Karangwa said that in partnership with Ntare Louisenlund School, the initiative is designed to build well-rounded individuals through education, recreation, and sports, all aimed at nurturing responsible and capable young Africans.
“If we say that our country’s development will be driven by the knowledge of its people, then the same applies to the entire African continent,” he noted.
Among the subjects to be taught are governance, artificial intelligence and robotics, debates, and various sports activities.
He further explained that children themselves will lead discussions, form groups, and engage in conversations that help them build confidence in public speaking.
Understanding one’s roots
Karangwa said the 2026 summer camp was also designed to help children understand their origins, which he described as essential in shaping responsible future Africans.
“How can these children begin asking where they come from? What is our history as Rwandans and Africans, regardless of where a child comes from? This helps them prepare for the future and take ownership of it for their own development and that of their countries. As the saying goes, if you do not know where you come from, you cannot know where you are going,” he said.
He also encouraged parents from different countries to give their children the opportunity to attend such programs in Rwanda, noting that they offer a valuable chance to connect with their roots in a well-structured learning environment.
Registration is open via info@k2careercenter.com or k2hrservices@gmail.com, or by calling +250 788 335 286 / +250 788 673 730
Steven E. Karangwa, the Chief Executive Officer of K2 Group, has told IGIHE that preparations for the 2026 edition of the summer camp are already at an advanced stage. Students also engage in sports activities, including basketball.Those who wish can swim in a well-equipped swimming pool.Children learn in groups, sharing and exchanging knowledge.Children study various subjects using modern equipment.Children also get ample time for play and recreational learning.Children are also trained in public speaking.The most recent summer camp was attended by children from six different countries.
Founded in 2016, NLCA-K and NLA were established with a vision of combining academic excellence with Christian values through the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) curriculum, raising the next generation of leaders in Rwanda and beyond.
The anniversary celebration will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the New Life Bible Church Kigali Auditorium. The event will bring together students, parents, staff, alumni, partners, and members of the wider community to reflect on the schools’ journey and achievements over the past decade under the theme drawn from 1 Samuel 7:12: “Ebenezer—thus far the Lord has helped us.”
Over the past 10 years, the schools have grown to serve 371 students across two campuses, offering education from nursery through high school. The institutions seek to equip learners not only with academic knowledge but also with leadership skills, strong moral character, and a Christ-centered worldview.
Pastor Fred Isaac Katagwa, Executive Director of Africa New Life Ministries, expressed deep gratitude for God’s faithfulness over the decade.
“Ten years ago, we stepped out in faith to establish these schools as beacons of Christ-centered excellence. Today, seeing 371 students equipped with academic rigor, moral character, and a biblical worldview is a powerful testimony of what God can do through obedient hearts. As we celebrate this Ebenezer moment, we remain committed to raising a generation of leaders who will transform our nation and the nations for the glory of God.”
NLA Students celebrate their success during a sports tournament hosted by Ntare Louisenlund School, highlighting the schools’ commitment to developing well-rounded learners through athletics, leadership, and character formation.
The celebration will feature worship, reflection, and recognition of the students, teachers, families, and partners who have contributed to the schools’ growth and development over the years.
Ms Ingrid Kaneza, Principal of New Life Christian Academy – Kigali, said the schools remain committed to nurturing both the academic and personal growth of their students.
“What we see in our students every day—their curiosity, compassion, and faith—is proof that when a school holds firmly to its values, it shapes more than minds; it shapes the future of a nation. We are immensely proud of every child who has walked through these doors, and we look forward to the next ten years with great expectation,” she said.
Students engage in focused independent learning at the school’s learning center, reflecting the ACE model’s emphasis on self-paced education, character development, and academic excellence.
As part of the celebrations, the schools will launch a 10th Anniversary Yearbook, documenting key milestones, student life, and the growth of both campuses since their inception.
Looking ahead, Africa New Life Ministries has outlined plans for the next decade that include expanding campus facilities, strengthening partnerships with churches and educational institutions across East Africa, and building relationships with leading universities around the world, including Ivy League institutions.
Students, staff, and community members of New Life Christian Academy–Kigali gather in remembrance during the commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, honoring the lives lost and reaffirming a commitment to unity, resilience, and a future free from hatred.
The anniversary event will also serve as a platform to unveil this vision for the future as the schools seek to broaden opportunities available to their students while maintaining their commitment to christian-centered education.
Africa New Life Ministries is a Christian organization dedicated to transforming lives and communities across Rwanda through the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and Acts of Compassion. Through education, sponsorship, leadership development, and community initiatives, ANLM works to equip individuals and families to thrive and contribute positively to society.
Graduates celebrate a significant milestone during the New Life Leadership Academy graduation ceremony, marking the culmination of years of academic achievement, leadership development, and faith-centered learning.
Launched in 2005, the campaign was designed to address gender disparities in education by increasing girls’ enrolment, improving retention, and promoting academic excellence across the country.
Over the years, it has also sought to mobilise communities, schools, and other stakeholders to create an environment where girls can thrive academically.
As part of this year’s edition, the Best Performing Girls (BPGs), commonly known as Inkubito z’Icyeza, were recognised within their respective schools. The recognition aims not only to reward excellence but also to inspire other learners, especially girls, to pursue academic success.
Since its inception nearly two decades ago, the campaign has recorded notable achievements. A total of 8,605 girls have been recognised as Best Performing Girls. In addition, girls account for 60% of the 10,945 students supported through the Edified Generation Scholarships Programme, as well as 80% of the 25,960 students benefiting from remedial learning programmes. Many of these beneficiaries have since progressed into leadership positions across different sectors in Rwanda.
This year alone, 502 girls were awarded for their outstanding performance in the National Examinations, reflecting strong academic results across primary, ordinary, and advanced levels.
At primary level, 445 girls were recognised, each representing the best-performing girl in her sector. At ordinary level, 32 girls were honoured, each selected as the top performer in her district.
At advanced level, 25 outstanding students were selected based on performance in their respective learning areas, including 10 from general education, 10 from technical secondary schools (TSS), and 5 from professional education.
Best Performing Girls at FAWE Girls’ School were honoured as part of efforts to encourage excellence and support girls’ education across the country.The Girls’ Education Campaign was also marked at Saint Aloys Rwamagana, where outstanding girls were recognised for their academic performance under the national initiative promoting girls’ education and achievement.The Girls’ Education Campaign also reached Lycée Notre Dame de Cîteaux, where Best Performing Girls were recognised as part of the ongoing national effort to promote academic excellence and strengthen girls’ education.
He made the remarks on June 9, 2026, while appearing before members of the Parliamentary Committee on Education, Technology, Culture, Sports and Youth to discuss the implementation of Law No. 010/2021 governing the education structure.
Dr. Kadozi explained that the law has enabled higher learning institutions to introduce new academic programmes, contributing to improved education quality and attracting more international students to Rwanda.
“The introduction of programmes has created many opportunities for a wide range of new programmes to be launched. This law gave us that opportunity, and as we speak, we have about 13,000 international students, a number that continues to increase,” he said.
As of the 2024/25 academic year, Rwanda had 39 higher learning institutions and universities, up from 37 in the previous year.
Rwanda now hosts 13,000 international students as higehr education expands.
As Rwanda continues its journey towards a digital and knowledge-based economy, the need for graduates who possess both academic knowledge and practical workplace experience has never been greater. Through these partnerships, MTN Rwanda is reaffirming its commitment to developing future-ready talent by creating pathways that connect learning with meaningful career opportunities.
The partnerships, signed on Thursday, June 4, 2026, establish a framework for cooperation focused on career readiness, workplace learning opportunities, talent development, and skills enhancement. Through this collaboration, students and graduates from the University of Rwanda and Kepler College will gain increased exposure to industry experiences while MTN Rwanda supports young people with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to contribute to Rwanda’s digital and economic transformation.
“At MTN, we believe that Rwanda’s future depends on investing in its young people. These partnerships with the University of Rwanda and Kepler College reflect our commitment to developing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals by creating meaningful pathways from education into the workplace,” stated Monzer Ali, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Rwanda.
“We aim to equip young talent with the practical skills and experiences needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy, and this may be done through internships, mentorship programmes, industry engagements, and mainly through our Global Graduate Programme, which is a Group-wide initiative designed to accelerate the development of high-potential young professionals through structured rotations, mentorship, and hands-on exposure across different business functions.”
Under the agreements, the institutions will collaborate on a range of initiatives, including career readiness programmes, guest lectures, mentorship sessions, workplace exposure opportunities, internships, industrial attachments, graduate placements, and targeted skills development interventions. The partnerships will also facilitate the sharing of labour market insights to help ensure academic programmes remain responsive to industry needs and evolving workforce demands.
Speaking on behalf of the University of Rwanda, Dr. Ndikumana Raymond, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration, said:
“The University of Rwanda is committed to producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also equipped with the practical skills required by today’s labour market. Our partnership with MTN Rwanda provides an important platform for students to gain industry exposure, strengthen their professional capabilities, and better position themselves for success in Rwanda’s growing digital economy. Together, we are helping to build a workforce that can drive innovation and national development.”
The partnerships have been designed to also support MTN Rwanda’s commitment to talent inclusion by creating equitable opportunities for young women and persons with disabilities to access workplace learning, mentorship, internships, and career development programmes. By intentionally promoting diverse participation and reducing barriers to employment, the collaboration seeks to contribute to a more inclusive workforce that reflects Rwanda’s diversity and unlocks the full potential of its talent pool.
“Through this partnership with MTN Rwanda, we are investing in the next generation of innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers who will create value, drive economic transformation, and strengthen Rwanda’s competitiveness on the continent and beyond. This is the kind of collaboration that turns potential into progress,” said Prof. Baylie Damtie Yeshita, Vice-Chancellor of Kepler College.
MTN Rwandacell Plc (MTN Rwanda), the country’s leading mobile telecommunications provider, has been operating in Rwanda since 1998. Over the years, the company has consistently invested in expanding and upgrading its network infrastructure while driving the rollout of innovative digital solutions that support national development.
As Rwanda’s number one network, MTN Rwanda offers a wide range of services to both individual and corporate customers, including tailored voice and data packages. The company says it remains committed to delivering a modern, connected experience for all users, guided by its ambition to lead the advancement of a dynamic digital future where everyone can benefit from inclusive connectivity.
The partnerships establish a framework for cooperation focused on career readiness, workplace learning opportunities, talent development, and skills enhancement. Through the collaboration, students and graduates from the University of Rwanda and Kepler College will gain increased exposure to industry experiences while MTN Rwanda supports young people with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to contribute to Rwanda’s digital and economic transformation.
The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, highlighted the impact of a collaboration that has helped hundreds of Rwandan students access higher education opportunities and leadership training over the past 20 years.
In his remarks, President Kagame welcomed the university’s leadership, faculty and staff, thanking them for their continued support to Rwanda’s education sector.
“To the alumni community present tonight, keep representing us well,” Kagame said. “If you ever need anything, do not shy away from asking. We are here for you.”
He also urged graduates to support future generations through mentorship, saying Rwanda’s growing global network should serve as “a national platform for opportunity creation.”
The President paid tribute to Dr. Mike E. O’Neal, who served as the fifth president of Oklahoma Christian University from 2002 to 2012, and his wife, Nancy O’Neal, describing them as instrumental figures in the partnership’s foundation.
“I first met Mike and Nancy when they visited Rwanda with Richard Lawson and his wife back in 2004,” Kagame said. “No one could have imagined that a discussion about Rwanda’s education ambitions would culminate in the long-standing and meaningful relationship we have today.”
The partnership began yielding results in 2006 when the first 10 Rwandan students travelled to study at Oklahoma Christian University through the Presidential Scholars Program.
The initiative has since produced more than 700 alumni who now serve in strategic leadership positions, including senior government officials and private sector executives.
He noted that the success of the Presidential Scholars Program has also inspired other universities to extend scholarship opportunities to privately funded Rwandan students.
Kagame expressed confidence in the future of the collaboration, citing ongoing initiatives such as an MBA program and preparations for a new study-abroad initiative.
“One of the most important legacies of this partnership is that Rwanda is now home to several world-class institutions,” he said. “This aligns perfectly with our country’s vision of becoming a regional hub for innovation.”
The Head of State emphasised the importance of investing in Africa’s young people through quality education and practical skills development.
“We often talk about Africa having an abundance of talent, but the conversation cannot end there,” Kagame said. “It is important to follow this with action and equip our young people with the knowledge and skills to compete with the rest of the world.”
He added that such investments are essential for building sustainable economic growth and reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening ties with the university.
“Twenty years is a special milestone. Let’s keep working together to write the next chapter of our journey,” Kagame said.
Speaking at the gala, John deSteiguer, Oklahoma Christian University Chancellor, said the partnership has evolved significantly since the launch of the Presidential Scholars Program.
“Beginning with the Presidential Scholars, our partnership has grown to include the establishment of the OC Learning Centre in Kigali, the expansion of online graduate and undergraduate programs, partnerships with organisations, institutions, and national leaders, and most importantly, students whose lives have been transformed through education, values, and community,” he said.
DeSteiguer revealed that enrollment in Oklahoma Christian programs offered in Rwanda increased by more than 60 percent this year alone, describing the growth as a reflection of Rwanda’s investment in education and leadership development.
“That 60 percent is not just a statistic,” he said. “That represents individuals, leaders, professionals, and future changemakers who are investing in their education, but they’re also investing in the future of their country.”
He said the partnership matters because education transforms lives and strengthens institutions, while relationships built on trust can help shape the future.
DeSteiguer also announced plans for the launch of three new academic programs in Rwanda, pending approval from the Rwanda Higher Education Council.
The proposed programs include a Bachelor of Science in Business Leadership Technology, a Master of Science in Systems Engineering, and a Master of Science in Project Management.
The new programs, he said, are designed to align with Rwanda’s growth, innovation, and workforce development priorities.
President Paul Kagame on Saturday evening joined the leadership of Oklahoma Christian University, alongside more than 350 alumni and stakeholders, for a gala dinner celebrating two decades of partnership between the university and Rwanda.President Kagame urged graduates to support future generations through mentorship, saying Rwanda’s growing global network should serve as “a national platform for opportunity creation.”The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, highlighted the impact of a collaboration that has helped hundreds of Rwandan students access higher education opportunities and leadership training over the past 20 years.The event highlighted the impact of a collaboration that has helped hundreds of Rwandan students access higher education opportunities and leadership training over the past 20 years.Speaking at the gala, John deSteiguer, Oklahoma Christian University Chancellor, said the partnership has evolved significantly since the launch of the Presidential Scholars Program.
The report, based on new data from 146 countries, shows that global enrollment in higher education rose from about 100 million in 2000 to 269 million in 2024.
However, this growth masks sharp regional disparities: in Western Europe and North America, 80 percent of young people are enrolled in higher education, compared with 9 percent in sub-Saharan Africa. Meanwhile, only 3 percent of students worldwide go abroad for higher education.
Women also remain underrepresented at the doctoral level and hold only about one quarter of leadership positions in academia, the report said.
The lack of complete and verifiable documents proving qualifications also poses a major barrier to refugees’ access to higher education, particularly in Global South countries, the report added.
To address this issue, UNESCO has introduced the Qualifications Passport, a tool designed to help recognize the academic, professional and vocational qualifications of refugees and forcibly displaced people, according to the report.
The report indicated that women also remain underrepresented at the doctoral level and hold only about one quarter of leadership positions in academia.
