University of Rwanda

What is it like to study medicine at UR ; Shimwa Anne Laurette shares her experience

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-08-25T15:45:00Z

Studying Medicine at UR offers students more than classroom learning. Through practical sessions, well-equipped laboratories and guidance from experienced lecturers, students are given opportunities to turn theoretical knowledge into skills they can apply in real healthcare settings.

For second-year medical student Shimwa Anne Laurette, this hands-on approach has been an important part of her journey at the University. She chose to study at the University of Rwanda because of its reputation as one of the country's leading universities, and says her experience so far has been both rewarding and enriching.

Shimwa conducting a laboratory experiment alongside her fellow student

One of the aspects she values most is the University's emphasis on practical training. Through well-equipped laboratories, students are given opportunities to translate theoretical concepts into hands-on skills. During a recent practical session, for instance, Shimwa and her classmates conducted a pregnancy test, an exercise that helped them understand how procedures learned in class are applied in real healthcare settings.

“Practical activities like these help us gain important skills and prepare us for our future careers in hospitals,” Shimwa says.

For her, this practical approach is an important part of preparing future healthcare professionals. She describes her lecturers as friendly, supportive and highly skilled, creating a learning environment where students can seek guidance while developing their knowledge and professional abilities.

Shimwa says the greatest rewards of a career in medicine come from the opportunity to serve others and contribute to saving lives

Shimwa also encourages young people aspiring to pursue medicine to remain committed to their dreams. While the profession can be demanding, she believes its rewards come from the opportunity to serve others and contribute to saving lives.

Her experience reflects the importance of combining academic knowledge with practical exposure in medical education. With qualified lecturers, good facilities and hands-on learning opportunities, Shimwa believes the University of Rwanda is providing her with a strong foundation for a rewarding career in medicine

Meet Ikuzwe Benite and her journey from animal health passion to community service

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-08-15T15:38:00Z

For Ikuzwe Benite, veterinary medicine is more than a career choice ; it is a pathway to serving people and communities through the health and wellbeing of animals.

Now in her fifth year at the College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Benite says her journey has brought her closer to a dream she has nurtured for years : building a career that combines her passion for science with meaningful service to society.

When she first joined the University of Rwanda, Benite admits that her understanding of animals was largely shaped by what she had encountered in local communities. Her university experience, however, has significantly broadened her perspective on what veterinary medicine can offer.

For Ikuzwe, the university experience has significantly broadened her perspective on the opportunities and possibilities within veterinary medicine

“I have learned that veterinary medicine is much broader than I initially thought, we can perform procedures similar to those in human medicine, including heart surgeries and other surgical procedures, as well as laboratory work, diagnosis and blood testing” she says.

For Benite, the combination of classroom theory and practical training has been central to her growth. Through laboratory sessions, field visits and farm-based learning, she has been able to move beyond textbooks and experience how veterinary knowledge is applied in real-world settings.

The college provides students with access to specialised facilities, including parasitology and microbiology laboratories, as well as an ICT room that supports learning and access to technology and academic resources. Field visits to farms further expose students to the realities of animal production and health management.

Beyond acquiring technical knowledge, Benite has also embraced opportunities to explore innovation. She says the University supports students interested in developing projects connected to their academic disciplines, allowing them to pursue ideas that could contribute to solving challenges in their communities.

The location of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences also adds another dimension to her learning experience. Situated in Rwanda's Eastern Province, a region where livestock farming is an important economic activity, the college offers students opportunities to interact with farmers and gain practical exposure to the sector they are preparing to serve.

Ikuzwe engages in a discussion with her fellow students on campus

Benite believes this connection between the university and surrounding communities makes her learning experience particularly valuable.

She encourages prospective student both from Rwanda and beyond ; who are interested in science and veterinary medicine to consider the University of Rwanda.

“To me, the University of Rwanda is a whole package ; you will not lack anything here ; there are many opportunities for learning, innovation and personal development.” Concluded Ikuzwe.

Inside CLAM : A University Centre bringing legal support closer to vulnerable communities

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-08-04T15:15:00Z

For many vulnerable people, accessing legal services can be a daunting challenge. Financial constraints, limited knowledge of the law and uncertainty about where to seek help can leave individuals struggling to resolve disputes or protect their rights.

At UR, the Centre for Legal Aid and Mediation (CLAM) is helping to bridge this gap by bringing free legal advice, mediation and advocacy closer to communities in need. The Centre provides practical support to people who may otherwise be unable to afford professional legal services, while also giving law students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in addressing real-life legal challenges.

The Centre for Legal Aid and Mediation (CLAM) continues to receive people from different parts of the country seeking legal support and guidance

For beneficiaries, CLAM is more than a place to seek legal advice. It is a space where people can be listened to, guided and supported as they navigate complex situations.

Mukamana Emelance, from Huye District, turned to the Centre after seeking help from local authorities without feeling that her concerns had been adequately addressed. Referred to CLAM by someone she met from Nyaruguru, she found a supportive environment where her case was carefully heard and she received guidance on the steps to take.

“When I came here, they welcomed me and listened to my story. For the first time, I felt that someone really understood what I was going through.” said Mukamana

CLAM subsequently helped Mukamana initiate her case and continues to follow up on its progress. She says the Centre is particularly important for people who cannot afford to hire lawyers, including vulnerable and elderly members of the community.

Another beneficiary, Kero Anselme from Nyaruguru District, Ngera Sector, sought CLAM's assistance following a dispute over payment for work he had undertaken with an entrepreneur in Kigali. Unsure of the legal procedures and authorities responsible for addressing the matter, he turned to the Centre for guidance.

Mukamana Emelance and Kero Anselme expressed satisfaction with the legal services they received from CLAM

CLAM listened to his concerns, explained the appropriate steps and directed him to the relevant labour authorities at Nyarugenge Sector, where he received further assistance.

“I would like to thank the University of Rwanda for establishing it because it thought about the needs of ordinary citizens.” Karo noted.

Through CLAM, UR is demonstrating how universities can extend their impact beyond classrooms and laboratories. By combining community service, legal empowerment and experiential learning, the Centre is helping vulnerable citizens better understand and exercise their rights while preparing future lawyers to serve society with practical knowledge and empathy.

Three staff earn PhDs, advancing solutions to Rwanda's health and environmental challenges

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-07-28T08:01:00Z

Three academic staff from the University of Rwanda (UR) have earned doctoral degrees in June through the UR-Sweden Program ; a longstanding bilateral research partnership between Rwanda and Sweden, contributing new scientific knowledge to address some of Rwanda's most pressing public health and environmental challenges.

Dr. Brigitte Mukarunyana and Dr. Albert Ndagijimana got their doctoral thesis from Umeå University, while Dr. Colores Uwamariya received her PhD from the University of Gothenburg.

Dr. Colores Uwamariya's research explored how Rwanda's rich biodiversity could contribute to the global search for new antiviral medicines. In her doctoral thesis, Medicinal plants as source of antiviral substances against respiratory syncytial virus, she investigated Rwandan medicinal plants as potential sources of antiviral compounds against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), one of the leading causes of severe respiratory infections among infants and young children worldwide.

Dr. Brigitte Mukarunyana (Right) and Dr. Albert Ndagijimana got their doctoral thesis from Umeå University, while Dr. Colores Uwamariya received her PhD from the University of Gothenburg

With treatment options for RSV remaining limited, her findings open new opportunities for the discovery of plant-based antiviral compounds that could support future drug development. The research also highlights the scientific value of indigenous medicinal knowledge while encouraging the sustainable use of Rwanda's natural resources in biomedical research.

Dr. Brigitte Mukarunyana focused on one of today's growing environmental concerns ; water pollution. Her doctoral thesis, Biochars and hydrochars for the adsorption of organic contaminants from wastewater, presents an innovative and environmentally friendly approach to wastewater treatment by converting agricultural waste into highly effective materials capable of removing organic pollutants from contaminated water.

By transforming agricultural residues into low-cost water purification materials, her research promotes a circular economy where waste is converted into valuable products. The findings have the potential to improve access to cleaner water, reduce environmental pollution, and provide sustainable wastewater treatment solutions for communities and industries alike.

Meanwhile, Dr. Albert Ndagijimana's research addressed childhood stunting, one of the most persistent public health challenges affecting children's growth and development. His doctoral study, Integrating spatial, classical and social epidemiology, machine learning, and qualitative approaches to understand childhood stunting in the Northern Province of Rwanda, combined advanced data analysis, epidemiology, machine learning, and qualitative research to identify the complex factors contributing to malnutrition among children.

The study provides evidence for more localized and family-centered interventions by recognizing that childhood stunting is influenced by a combination of health, social, environmental, and geographic factors. Its findings can support policymakers, health practitioners, and development partners in designing targeted nutrition programmes that improve child health and contribute to Rwanda's efforts to reduce malnutrition.

The three scholars join a growing community of researchers developed through the UR–Sweden Programme, which aims to strengthen research capacity and produce evidence that informs policy, innovation, and sustainable development.

The Rwanda–Sweden bilateral research partnership has played a pivotal role in strengthening research and postgraduate education at the University of Rwanda by supporting doctoral training, collaborative research, institutional development, and international academic exchange.

UR earns Mastercard Foundation grant in recognition of excellence in health education and community impact

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-07-22T08:49:00Z

UR has reached another significant milestone after being selected among five African universities to receive USD 3 million through the Mastercard Foundation's Africa Higher Education for Transformation (AHEFT) initiative.

The University earned the award under the "Excellence in Health" category in recognition of its outstanding contribution to strengthening Rwanda's health workforce through education, research, innovation, and community engagement.

Modern laboratories have enabled the integration of innovation and technology into health training, providing students and researchers with opportunities for hands-on learning, scientific research and the development of innovative health solutions

Commenting on the achievement, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration Dr. Raymond Ndikumana said the grant will accelerate the University's efforts to transform health education and research while expanding its impact on communities.

"The support from the Mastercard Foundation will strengthen our capacity to empower health education and research. It will build on the progress the University has already made by expanding awareness, knowledge, and access to initiatives that directly benefit communities," he said.

Dr. Ndikumana noted that the grant also complements the Government of Rwanda's 4x4 Programme, which aims to significantly increase the number of health professionals over the next four years.

"We have many students, but the country needs even more graduates in health-related programmes. This support will enable us to provide additional scholarships while strengthening our teaching and research infrastructure to accommodate increased enrolment," he explained.

Through its community outreach programs, the University has expanded access to essential healthcare services, reaching thousands of people in remote communities

The recognition reflects the University's longstanding contribution to Rwanda's health sector. To date, the University has trained more than 26,000 health professionals, helping to build the country's healthcare workforce. Beyond academic training, its community-based education model has reached nearly 500,000 people through clinical placements, outreach programmes, and university health services.

Over the years, the University has also made substantial investments in health research and academic infrastructure. It hosts one of the country's leading Eye Clinic and Dental Clinic, which serve both as teaching facilities and providers of specialized healthcare services.

The University's Centre for Biomedical Engineering and e-Health serves as a regional hub for health technology, with state-of-the-art laboratories supporting teaching, research and innovation

The University's Centre for Biomedical Engineering and e-Health has become a regional leader in health technology, offering state-of-the-art laboratories that support teaching, research, and innovation. In addition, the Regional Centre of Excellence for Vaccines, Immunization, and Health Supply Chain Management continues to strengthen health systems across East Africa by providing specialized training, conducting operational research, and supporting evidence-based policy and innovation in vaccine delivery and health supply chain management.

The University's Eye and Dental Clinics serve as both teaching facilities and providers of specialized healthcare services to the public

UR Students crowned Africa's top winners in nuclear energy competition in Russia

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-07-10T13:41:00Z

Two University of Rwanda students have earned continental recognition after emerging as the top winners of the 2026 Atoms Empowering Africa Video Contest, an achievement that took them to Russia and showcased Rwanda's growing voice in nuclear science and innovation.

Ange Fanny Uwera and Akaliza Keziah Laissa, both Bachelor of Applied Physics students, secured first place among finalists from across the continent in the competition organised by Russian energy company Rosatom in partnership with the BRICS Nuclear Platform. The contest encourages young Africans to explore the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology through innovative short videos.

Ange Fanny Uwera (top right) and Akaliza Keziah Laissa, both Bachelor of Applied Physics students at the College of Science and Technology, emerged as Africa's top winners in the 2026 Atoms Empowering Africa Video Contest, earning international recognition and a trip to Russia

Inspired by Rwanda's aspirations to develop nuclear energy, the pair created a video illustrating how the country could benefit from the peaceful use of nuclear technology. Their project also underscored the importance of international collaboration in advancing nuclear science and supporting sustainable development.

"We wanted to show what Rwanda could look like if nuclear energy was fully developed," said Uwera.

Producing the winning video required dedication and creativity. The students developed the concept, wrote the script, filmed in different locations and edited the final production themselves to create a compelling story that captured the judges' attention.

The competition attracted participants from across Africa, with only 12 finalists advancing to the final stage. Uwera and Akaliza emerged as the highest-ranked participants, an achievement that exceeded their expectations.

“At the beginning, we never imagined we could actually win or become the top participants in Africa. Being invited to travel to Russia made the experience even more memorable,” Uwera said.

The recognition provided the students with an opportunity to engage with fellow young innovators and deepen their understanding of nuclear science on an international platform. Their success also highlights the growing opportunities available to University of Rwanda students to participate in global competitions and showcase their talents beyond the classroom.

Uwera, who serves as President of the Nuclear is Clean Energy (NiCE) Club Rwanda, and Akaliza, the club's Outreach Leader, encouraged fellow students to seize opportunities that complement their academic studies.

"Don't stay in your comfort zone, go out, explore and make the most of every opportunity you get ; the more you engage in different activities, the more rewarding your university experience becomes," advised Akaliza.

Digital Transformation takes centre stage as UR validates its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-07-07T09:11:00Z

UR convened a validation workshop for its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, bringing together stakeholders from government institutions, the private sector, industry, academia, and development partners to help shape the University's direction over the next five years.

The workshop provided a platform for participants to share insights and recommendations that will refine the University's strategic priorities, implementation approaches, and performance targets. The exercise aimed to ensure that the new Strategic Plan responds to national and regional development priorities while strengthening the University's contribution to sustainable development, innovation, and excellence in higher education.

Participants attentively follow the presentation of the five-Year Strategic Plan during the validation workshop

Welcoming participants, Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayihura M. Didas emphasized that stakeholder engagement is critical to developing a Strategic Plan that is realistic, relevant, and impactful.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayihura emphasized that stakeholder engagement is essential to developing a Strategic Plan that is realistic, relevant and impactful

He noted that the 2025–2030 Strategic Plan is aligned with Rwanda's Vision 2050, the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), and the Education Sector Strategic Plan, reaffirming the University's commitment to supporting the country's long-term development agenda.

Presenting the Strategic Plan, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration Dr. Raymond Ndikumana highlighted digital transformation as one of its key pillars.

"Digital transformation will drive research, academic excellence, and internationalization while expanding access to higher education by enabling the University to increase student enrolment beyond the limits of its current physical infrastructure," said Dr. Ndikumana.

Deputy Vice Chancellor Dr. Ndikumana interacts with a representative from the Embassy of Sweden in Rwanda during the Strategic Plan validation workshop

He further underscored the University's commitment to improving graduate employability, producing high-impact research that addresses societal challenges, strengthening alumni and global partnerships, and advancing internationalization.

The forum also highlighted the University's significant progress in research, particularly the increasing number of publications in internationally recognized peer-reviewed journals. It was highlighted that the University's research agenda is organized around 10 research clusters and guided by eight strategic goals, ensuring that research remains responsive to national priorities and contributes to sustainable socio-economic development.

Participants from government, development partners, academia and the private sector pose for a group photo during the Strategic Plan validation workshop

DST-HIRWA project empowers a new generation of health data scientists in Rwanda

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-07-05T08:00:27Z

The future of healthcare is increasingly being shaped by data, and at the University of Rwanda, a transformative initiative is helping build the expertise needed to turn data into better health outcomes. Through the Data Science Training for Health in Rwanda (DST-HIRWA) project, the University is equipping researchers, lecturers and young scientists with advanced data science skills to address Rwanda's most pressing public health challenges.

Implemented through the University of Rwanda's Centre of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and e-Health, the NIH-funded DST-HIRWA project brings together the University of Rwanda, Washington University in St. Louis and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Rwanda to strengthen sustainable capacity in health data science.

Through DST-HIRWA, researchers, lecturers, and emerging scientists have gained advanced data science skills to tackle Rwanda's most pressing public health challenges

The project supports master's, PhD, postdoctoral and junior faculty training through scholarships, research funding, boot camps, mentorship, grant writing, scientific publishing and collaborative research. Beyond producing graduates, it is creating a critical mass of experts capable of transforming health data into evidence that informs policy and improves healthcare delivery.

Among them is Brigitte Umutoni, a PhD student in Public Health at the University of Rwanda, whose research combines mathematics, data science and public health to predict disease outbreaks and improve population health. According to her, data is the foundation of effective public health because it helps to understand disease trends, identify risk factors and predict future outbreaks.

"The project has strengthened my skills in data science, modelling and research, enabling me to develop practical solutions that can improve health outcomes," she said.

Brigitte Umutoni (left), a PhD student in Public Health at the University of Rwanda, is among the young researchers benefiting from DST-HIRWA's capacity-building support

Brigitte hopes to continue applying data science in public health research while mentoring more women and girls to pursue careers in mathematics and data science, helping build an inclusive pipeline of future scientists.

For Dr Emmy Mugisha, a faculty member in the Department of Computer Science and Coordinator of the Master's Program in Health Informatics, the project has strengthened both his research and teaching.

"The skills I've gained enable us to analyse large volumes of health data and transform them into actionable insights that help policymakers identify disease trends, allocate resources effectively and design evidence-based interventions," he said, adding that Data-driven decision-making is essential for strengthening healthcare systems, especially in underserved communities.

Dr. Emmy Mugisha (standing) engages Master's and PhD candidates in an interactive exchange and practical learning in health data science

As DST-HIRWA continues to expand Rwanda's health data science ecosystem, their impact extends far beyond the classroom. By developing highly skilled researchers, strengthening institutional capacity and promoting evidence-based healthcare, the initiatives are laying the foundation for more resilient health systems and healthier communities in Rwanda and across the region.

UR and Talent Match strengthen graduate employability through career readiness trainings

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-07-02T09:29:00Z

Preparing graduates for today's competitive job market requires more than academic excellence. It demands practical workplace skills, industry exposure, and strong connections between universities and employers. Recognizing this need, UR has partnered with Talent Match Inc. to complement academic learning with career readiness programmes that equip students with the competencies employers seek.

Through this collaboration, UR students gain access to career coaching, employability training, mentorship, digital skills development, and networking opportunities that ease the transition from campus to the workplace. The partnership reflects the University's commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically qualified but also prepared to thrive in a rapidly evolving world of work.

Through UR & Talent Match collaboration, students are gaining access to career coaching, employability training, mentorship, digital skills development and networking opportunities to support a smooth transition from university to the workplace

In an interview with The UR Insight, Allen Kendunga, Chief Executive Officer of Talent Match Inc., shared the inspiration behind the organization, its achievements, and her vision for preparing young people for the future of work.

According to her, Talent Match was founded after recognizing that many graduates entered the labour market with strong academic credentials but lacked the practical competencies employers increasingly demand.

"Our programmes equip fellows with career readiness, employability skills, and direct connections to employers, enabling them to transition confidently into employment and contribute to Rwanda's growing workforce." she explained.

Allen Kendunga, Chief Executive Officer of Talent Match Inc., encourages students to actively pursue internships, volunteer opportunities, mentorship and networking experiences to enhance their career readiness

The organisation's training programmes focus on developing well-rounded professionals who can adapt to a rapidly evolving workplace. Beyond technical knowledge, participants gain practical skills in CV and cover letter writing, interview preparation, professional communication, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, networking, and personal branding. Fellows are also introduced to digital productivity tools and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence to enhance workplace performance.

"Every programme is designed to prepare fellows for the expectations of today's employers," Kendunga noted.

Over the past seven years, Talent Match has reached over 3000 university young people through career readiness programmes, employability training, mentorship, internships, and digital learning initiatives. The organisation has also established partnerships with universities, employers, development organisations, and public institutions to broaden access to career development opportunities.

One of its notable innovations is the Talent Match Platform, which connects fellows with learning resources, career guidance, internship opportunities, and employment vacancies while strengthening the link between graduates and employers.

Drawing from years of working with young professionals, Kendunga encouraged university students to begin planning their careers long before graduation.

"Academic qualifications open the door, but employers also value practical experience, communication skills, digital capability, and a willingness to keep learning," she said.

She urged students to actively pursue internships, volunteer opportunities, mentorship, and networking experiences while embracing lifelong learning and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence in a responsible and productive manner.

Looking to the future, Talent Match aims to expand its reach by providing career readiness programmes to more young people across Rwanda and beyond. The organization also plans to strengthen partnerships with universities and employers, expand workplace skills and Artificial Intelligence training, and create additional pathways to internships and meaningful employment.

Beyond the numbers : How DST-HIRWA and SYNAPSE are advancing data science for health through people and institutions

MURANGWA Darius — 2026-07-01T09:59:00Z

The University of Rwanda is strengthening health research and education through two flagship initiatives—Data Science Training for Health Innovation in Rwanda (DST-HIRWA) and SYNAPSE. Implemented by the Centre of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and e-Health under the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, the projects are equipping a new generation of scientists with advanced skills in data science, research and scientific communication to address Rwanda's evolving health challenges.

The DST-HIRWA and SYNAPSE projects are equipping a new generation of scientists with advanced skills in data science, research and scientific communication to address Rwanda's evolving health challenges

One of the programme beneficiaries is Melissa Uwase, an Assistant Lecturer in Epidemiology, whose journey reflects the transformative impact of the initiatives on early-career academics. Joining the programme as a junior faculty member, she strengthened her expertise in analysing large datasets, applying advanced statistical methods and communicating scientific findings.

"Through the programme, I received hands-on training in data science, advanced analytics and scientific communication. This experience didn't just build my confidence ; it completely changed how I approach research and teaching," she says.

Today, Melissa applies these skills in teaching advanced epidemiological methods, mentoring Master's students and guiding research projects from proposal development to publication. For her, the greatest achievement is being able to transfer this knowledge to future public health professionals.

Melissa, an Assistant Lecturer in Epidemiology, acknowledges that the projects have strengthened her capacity in analysing large datasets, applying advanced statistical methods and effectively communicating scientific findings

"What I value most is that I'm now able to pass on this knowledge to my students, helping to prepare the next generation of public health professionals," she adds.

According to Professor Abraham Haileamlak Mitike, Principal of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, the projects have significantly strengthened postgraduate education, research capacity and academic excellence at the University.

"The DST-HIRWA and SYNAPSE projects have made a significant contribution to strengthening postgraduate education, research capacity and overall academic excellence at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences," he says.

The initiatives have supported Master's and PhD students, postdoctoral fellows and faculty members through advanced training, mentorship and access to modern research infrastructure. They have also enhanced scientific publication, grant writing, curriculum development and international collaboration, increasing the University's research competitiveness and global visibility.

Principal Prof. Abraham highlights that the capacity built through the two projects is strengthening evidence-based policy, fostering innovation and contributing to improved health outcomes in Rwanda and beyond

Professor Mitike notes that the benefits extend beyond academia.

"By strengthening our institutional capacity, we are better positioned to contribute to evidence-based policy, support innovation, and ultimately improve health outcomes for communities in Rwanda and beyond," he says.

Funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), the initiatives bring together the University of Rwanda, Washington University in St. Louis and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Rwanda. Together, they are building a sustainable, locally led ecosystem for health research and innovation while preparing the next generation of scientists to improve lives through data-driven solutions.