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UR has welcomed the third cohort of 28 students into its Master of Science in Biotechnology program, marking another milestone in the country’s efforts to build a highly skilled workforce capable of driving innovation in health, agriculture, environmental management, and industry.

The program is supported through a partnership with BK Foundation, which provides scholarships for students, and the European Union, through the Kwigira Project, which contributes technical expertise, educational resources, laboratory equipment, and other logistical support to strengthen biotechnology training and research.

A section of candidates selected for the Master of Science in Biotechnology programme under scholarships provided by BK Foundation

Speaking during the orientation ceremony, BK Foundation Executive Secretary Ingrid Karangwayire said biotechnology presents significant opportunities for Rwanda’s future development and that the newly admitted students have an important role to play in shaping that future.

"You’ve really worked hard to be part of this program. We really see you as the cornerstone of creating and putting us on the global map," she told the students.

Ingrid Karangwayire, Executive Secretary of BK Foundation, delivers her remarks during the induction ceremony for the third cohort of the Master of Science in Biotechnology programme

Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr. Menelas Nkeshimana, Head of the Department of Health Workforce Development, underscored the importance of collaboration in developing Rwanda’s biotechnology ecosystem. He noted that the country has transitioned from observing advances in biotechnology elsewhere to building its own expertise and innovation capacity.

"Biotechnology was once something we admired from afar, and today Rwanda is building the talent and capacity needed to become an active contributor to this field," he said.

Dr. Menelas Nkeshimana from the Ministry of Health commended the partnership between the University of Rwanda and its partners in advancing biotechnology education and research

The MSc in Biotechnology program forms part of the University’s broader commitment to strengthening Rwanda’s technological readiness and global competitiveness by producing highly qualified professionals equipped to address national and regional development challenges through science and innovation.

Under the partnership with BK Foundation, 76 students are expected to receive scholarships to complete the MSc in Biotechnology program. To date, the program has graduated 24 students, including 22 BK Foundation-supported scholars. In addition, the European Union, through the Kwigira Project, is supporting PhD candidates while enhancing the program through technical expertise, laboratory infrastructure, equipment, and learning resources.

The third cohort of the Master of Science in Biotechnology pose for a group photo with representatives from the University of Rwanda, BK Foundation, and partner institutions during their induction ceremony