The Higher Education Council (HEC) has revealed that more than 2,700 Rwandan students are currently enrolled in six international universities operating in Rwanda a development officials say is significantly reducing the number of students who used to travel abroad for degree programs unavailable locally.
According to Dr. Edouard Kadozi, Executive Director of HEC, the presence of these international institutions is reshaping Rwanda’s higher education landscape by making globally competitive programs accessible within the country. “There are critical academic programs that Rwanda needs to accelerate its development. While some are already offered by local universities, others were previously unavailable,” Dr. Kadozi told RBA. “Now, students can pursue those programs here in Rwanda, not only Rwandans but also learners from across Africa. Many are graduating, creating innovative projects, and contributing to both public and private sectors.”
Dr. Kadozi added that the number of Rwandan students studying in these international universities continues to grow each year, reflecting the trust and attractiveness of Rwanda’s academic environment.
Opening Doors to Global Education in Rwanda
Emelyne Umunoza Gasana, Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Research at Kepler University, noted that Rwanda’s open policy toward international higher education providers has had a positive impact on the country and the continent at large. “The Government of Rwanda opened its doors to international universities, which has greatly benefited the nation and Africa as a whole. We teach both Rwandan students and others from more than 20 countries. The knowledge they gain prepares them to compete not only locally but globally,” she said.
Vesa Sunasee, CEO of Africa Leadership University (ALU), emphasized that Rwanda’s investment in higher education mirrors the strategies used by rapidly developing Asian economies such as India, China, and Singapore. “These countries achieved remarkable progress in just 15 years through strong investment in education,” he said. “That’s the same philosophy we are applying in Africa, aligning with Rwanda’s vision to build a world-class education system.”
Students Gain Global Exposure at Home
Students studying in these institutions say learning alongside peers from different countries gives them valuable cross-cultural experience and practical skills.
Frank Kimenyi, a Kepler student, shared: “Studying in an international university gives us the chance to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds while still in school. At the same time, our education integrates Rwanda’s civic values, history, and national vision, ensuring we remain grounded in our identity.”
Kaliza Mbanza, a student at ALU, added that international universities in Rwanda offer world-class education without the need to study abroad. “We gain the same knowledge and exposure available overseas, enriched with diverse international expertise all while staying in our own country,” she said.
The growth of international universities in Rwanda reflects the nation’s broader ambition to become a regional hub for quality higher education, fostering innovation, inclusion, and global competitiveness among African youth.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
