What you need to know about Rwanda’s new computing institute

The decision was approved during a Cabinet meeting held on Friday as part of Rwanda’s broader strategy to strengthen its technology and innovation ecosystem.

The Rwanda Institute of Computing will officially open in September 2026 as a specialized institution under the University of Rwanda. It will offer advanced degree programs in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity.

According to a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister, the institute builds on the success of the Rwanda Coding Academy by creating a clear pathway for students to pursue advanced studies in computer science and emerging technologies.

The statement noted: “The institute will provide a seamless pathway to advanced computing education and further strengthen Rwanda’s talent pipeline for the digital economy.”

Rwanda is among the African countries that have adopted a national Artificial Intelligence policy. On June 8, 2026, the Cabinet also established the National Artificial Intelligence Agency, which will help accelerate innovation, attract investment, support AI implementation, and strengthen governance in the sector.

Artificial intelligence is already being applied across Rwanda in a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, education, justice, agriculture, and many other areas of national development.

The country continues to prioritize a knowledge-based and technology-driven economy.

Under its five-year National Strategy for Transformation, Rwanda aims for all citizens to possess basic digital literacy by 2029, while one million people are expected to receive training in computer programming.

Government statistics indicate that by the end of 2024, more than 60% of Rwandans had acquired basic digital skills.

Mobile phone ownership has also grown significantly, with 85% of households owning a mobile phone in 2024, up from 67% in 2017.

By 2029, Rwanda aims to ensure that all citizens have the digital skills needed to access both government and private-sector services online from anywhere in the country, using digital technologies.