College of Science and Technology

23 PhD students complete training in English for academic writing and publication

Murangwa Darius — 2026-03-23T15:29:00Z

Twenty-three PhD students pursuing various specializations at the African Centre of Excellence in Data Science have successfully completed a one-week training in English for Academic Writing and Publication, as part of the requirements of their academic journey. The training took place from 18 to 22 March 2026.

The training was organized by the African Centre of Excellence in Data Science (ACE-DS) in partnership with the University of Rwanda, through its Centre for Language Enhancement. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to enhancing academic excellence and supporting researchers in effectively communicating their work to the global scientific community.

Bringing together faculty members and PhD students, the program provided participants with essential skills in academic writing, with a strong focus on preparing manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Throughout the training, participants engaged with key concepts such as structuring academic papers, developing clear and coherent arguments, adhering to academic conventions, and improving language precision and clarity.

In addition to theoretical insights, the training emphasized practical application, allowing participants to refine their writing through guided exercises and feedback. This hands-on approach ensured that attendees not only understood the principles of academic writing but also gained confidence in applying them to their own research work.

Group photo: 23 PhD students complete training in English for academic writing and publication

Participants expressed satisfaction with the training, noting its relevance and practical value in advancing their academic and professional goals. They also highlighted their intention to apply the acquired skills in their ongoing research and to share the knowledge with peers and colleagues.

“This training has significantly improved my confidence in academic writing and publishing. I now feel better equipped to structure my research and prepare manuscripts for international journals.”, said a participant.

Effective academic writing is a cornerstone of knowledge dissemination and research impact. By equipping participants with these competencies, the training contributes to improving the quality and visibility of research produced within the University of Rwanda and beyond.

The African Centre of Excellence in Data Science remains committed to building capacity in research and innovation through targeted training programs and strategic partnerships. Initiatives such as this play a vital role in fostering a culture of high-quality research, publication, and knowledge exchange

ACEIoT's Drones Knowledge and Skills Hub celebrates 62 graduates of drone technology training

Murangwa Darius — 2026-03-19T15:25:00Z

On 18th March 2026, ACEIoT's Drones Knowledge and Skills Hub proudly celebrated the successful completion of a 5-week training program in drone technologies by 62 participants, including students, alumni, and staff.
The milestone was marked by an official certificate-awarding ceremony, recognizing their commitment to acquiring cutting-edge technical skills.

The training was delivered through the university's Drones Knowledge & Skills Hub in collaboration with GIZ Rwanda and New Generation Rwanda. This partnership reflects a shared vision of equipping individuals with practical, future-ready competencies that respond to the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
Over the course of five weeks, participants were introduced to the fundamental components of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), including drone architecture, payload systems, and their diverse applications across multiple sectors.

Participants pose with their certificates after completing an intensive five-week training in drone technologies offered by the Drones Knowledge & Skills Hub in collaboration with GIZ Rwanda and New Generation Rwanda

The program combined theoretical instruction with extensive hands-on training, enabling participants to gain practical experience in operating drones and applying their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Damien Hanyurimfura, Director of the African Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things (ACeIoT), highlighted that the Centre is committed to advancing technologies that contribute to the country's ambition of becoming a technology hub.

“This vision informed the establishment of the Drones Knowledge & Skills Hub under the Centre, as a platform to build practical expertise and foster innovation.

Drone technology continues to play an increasingly important role in sectors such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, infrastructure development, and disaster management”', he said.

Norman Schräpel, Head of Clusters – Digital Transformation & Digital Economy/ Good governance at GIZ Rwanda emphasized that promoting digital innovation is one of GIZ's priorities in advancing the country's economy.

The graduates expressed satisfaction with the training and committed to sharing their newly acquired skills with other professionals.

By offering this training, the University of Rwanda is taking a significant step toward empowering its community with skills that are not only relevant today but also critical for the future.

UR African Centers of Excellence hailed for a decade of impact

Murangwa Darius — 2025-12-12T16:29:00Z

UR-based Centres of Excellence (ACEs) joined other Centres of Excellence under the Eastern and Southern Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence (ACE) project at the final Technical and Advisory Council Meeting (TAM) to reflect on the journey and impact achieved over the past decade.

Held from 8 to 10 December 2025 in Kampala, Uganda, the meeting served as a platform to recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements and transformative impact delivered by the Centres of Excellence over ten years of implementation. Participants highlighted how the initiative has strengthened higher education, advanced research and innovation, and delivered practical solutions that positively impact communities across the region.

UR delegates led by Prof Gatare during their participation in the Technical and Advisory Council Meeting which was held in Kampala-Uganda

Throughout the meeting, Centres showcased key achievements realized during the decade, including cutting-edge research outputs, innovative technologies, capacity building for students and faculty, and strong linkages with industry and society. These accomplishments underscored the Centres' role in driving knowledge-based development and addressing regional and global challenges.

Among the achievements celebrated by the UR-based Centres of Excellence are the graduation of 90 PhD candidates and 690 Master's students, the establishment of Incubation and Innovation Hubs, and the training of more than 5,000 in-service professionals, among others.

In his remarks, Assoc. Prof. Ignace Gatare, who represented the UR Vice Chancellor at the meeting, hailed the World Bank for its funding support and emphasized the programme's significant contribution to Rwanda's vision of becoming a regional knowledge hub.

“This initiative has strongly supported Rwanda's agenda of becoming a knowledge hub and fostering a knowledge-based economy,” he said.

In addition to reflecting on successes, participants shared lessons learned from implementing large-scale academic and research programmes, offering valuable insights to inform future initiatives. Discussions also focused on sustainability strategies to ensure that the gains achieved by the Centres are maintained and scaled beyond the programme's lifecycle.

The final TAM meeting also brought together key stakeholders to strengthen existing partnerships, foster new collaborations, and explore opportunities for mobilizing resources to support future growth. These engagements reaffirmed the importance of academia–industry–government collaboration in sustaining innovation and impact.

School of Mining and Geology opens its doors amid Rwanda Mining Week

Murangwa Darius — 2025-12-08T16:24:00Z

The College of Science and Technology officially opened the doors to its new transformed School of Mining and Geology during Rwanda Mining Week. The school has a modern complex that features state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced technology to support cutting-edge research and practical training, positioning the school at the forefront of shaping Rwanda's mining sector.

Participants toured different lab available in the School of Mining and Geology

As part of Rwanda Mining Week activities, the School of Mining and Geology welcomed members of the public, industry stakeholders, and partners to explore its facilities. Visitors engaged in presentations and guided laboratory tours that highlighted the school's role in advancing geoscience education and its contribution to the mining industry. The event served as a strong reminder of the close link between academic learning and industry practice, and of the school's readiness to drive the future of geosciences in Rwanda.

In his remarks, Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration, noted that the transformation of the school is aimed at building national capacity in mineral exploration, mining engineering, and geological sciences to support Rwanda's growing mining industry.

DVC Dr Ndikumana while delivering his remarks

“The school transformation intends among others to close the skills gap in Rwanda's mining sector by producing locally trained geologists and mining engineers,” Dr. Ndikumana said.

The School of Mining and Geology focuses on high-quality training, research, and strong industry partnerships to enhance both practical skills and theoretical knowledge in mining and geology. It works closely with industry players such as Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board to provide students with real-world experience through fieldwork, internships, and professional attachments.

Students conducted some experiments showcasing the importance of the school

Graduates from the school are increasingly joining the workforce shortly after completing their studies, reflecting the relevance of the curriculum to industry needs. The school aligns with national development priorities by supporting the modernization and professionalization of mining practices, promoting environmental protection, and encouraging responsible exploitation of mineral resources.

Through its academic programs and partnerships, the School of Mining and Geology contributes to Rwanda's ambition of becoming a regional mining hub by training professionals equipped with modern exploration, mining, and environmental management skills.

UR strengthens Rwanda's nuclear capacity with the launch of a new degree program

Murangwa Darius — 2025-12-08T16:10:00Z

The Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Science and Technology was launched at the College of Science and Technology, underscoring Rwanda's unwavering ambition to develop a robust nuclear energy program focused on modern, peaceful, and transformative nuclear technologies aimed at accelerating the country's socioeconomic development. The program positions Rwanda to harness the power of nuclear science across key sectors such as medicine, agriculture, water resources, and beyond.

Participants in the launch of Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Science and Technology

The BSc in Nuclear Science and Technology is a four-year degree that combines rigorous theoretical training with hands-on experience in advanced laboratories, including a dedicated Nuclear Science Laboratory. Students will specialize in nuclear techniques, health physics, radiation protection, and environmental monitoring, while benefiting from industrial attachments and research projects that connect classroom learning to real-world applications.

The first cohort of 52 students has been enrolled for the 2025–2026 academic year. Admission criteria emphasized a strong background in mathematics and physics.

Speaking during the launch, Prof. Ignace Gatare said the program is poised to prepare a skilled workforce capable of supporting nuclear reactor operations, medical physics, radiation safety, and other critical applications essential for sustainable development.

“This programme is a milestone for Rwanda and Africa,” said Gatare; the Principal of the College of Science and Technology.

Pictured from left: Dr. Fidele Ndahayo, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board and Prof. Ignace Gatare Principal of the College of Science and Technology.

Among the participants at the launch was Dr. Fidele Ndahayo, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board, a key partner in both the conception and delivery of the program. He noted that the inauguration marks a significant milestone in Rwanda's scientific and national development journey.

“This programme strengthens the country's ability to train homegrown nuclear experts, equipping our young people with skills and technical competencies to integrate nuclear solutions in energy, health, agricultural, industrial, and environmental sectors,” Dr. Ndahayo said.

This groundbreaking programme is more than an academic initiative; it is a strategic investment aligned with Rwanda's commitment to integrating nuclear science into national development plans, as stipulated in the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050.

Students had an opportunity to share their views about the new program

Rwanda is a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the African Regional Cooperation Agreement for Research, Development and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA).

Group photo featuring students, college officials, and attending guests

Nikuze's life-saving diabetic care innovation wins 20 million Frw

Murangwa Darius — 2025-12-05T20:27:28Z

Neem Company Ltd has emerged among the winners of this year's Hanga Pitch Fest, securing the second place with a 20,000,000 Rwf prize for its groundbreaking health-tech solution, the “Smart Insole designed to prevent diabetic foot complications.”

Neem Company Ltd ‘s innovation is one of the innovations which were incubated at the African Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things (ACEIoT)' s AI and IoT Incubation Hub.

The innovation stands out as a transformative tool for diabetic patients, offering early detection of warning signs that can help prevent severe medical outcomes, including infections and amputations.

Prisca Nikuze, co-founder of Neem Company Ltd came at the 2nd place in this year's Hanga Pitch Fest. On this photo receiving the prize worthy 20,000,000 Rwf from the Minister of Health Dr Sabin Nsanzimana

The smart insole is designed to blend effortlessly into users' daily routines, giving patients a practical and accessible way to monitor foot health. By alerting them to early indicators of complications, the solution aims to reduce hospitalizations, improve quality of life, and ease the burden on health systems.

Driving innovation for improved diabetic care

Winning at Hanga Pitch Fest will significantly advance Neem Company's mission. The grant will directly support the company's work in several key areas, including developing and refining the smart insole to enhance comfort, durability, and readiness for everyday use; enhancements to the digital platform, strengthening real-time alert systems and improving user experience for patients and clinicians among others.

Speaking about the milestone, Prisca Nikuze, the co-founder of Neem Company Ltd, expressed gratitude and optimism about the impact of the award:

“The Hanga award would not only accelerate the development of the smart insole but also strengthen Neem Company Ltd's capacity to deliver a meaningful, lasting impact in diabetic care.”

A journey nurtured by local innovation ecosystems

Prisca Nikuze is one of the innovators whose innovations were incubated at the African Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things (ACEIoT)'s AI and IoT Incubation Hub, where her solution received mentorship, technical guidance and financial support.

The AI and IoT Incubation Hub got funding from The Research and Innovation Systems for Africa (RISA) Fund.

She acknowledged the hub's contribution, adding, “We are sincerely grateful for the ongoing mentorship and support we receive from ACEIoT throughout our journey. Your guidance has played an important role in shaping our progress.”

Neem Company's victory marks not only a major achievement for the startup but also a significant step toward advancing digital health solutions in Rwanda and beyond.

About Hanga Pitch Fest

Hanga Pitch Fest is Rwanda's flagship technology and innovation festival, organized by the Government of Rwanda to spotlight homegrown talent and support emerging startups. The event brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and innovation enthusiasts from across the continent. It features a competitive pitching stage for top finalists, a showcase of innovative products, masterclasses, and live entertainment—making it a dynamic platform for driving tech-enabled solutions for Rwanda and Africa.

UR's SABE leads dialogue on the future of facility management in Africa

Murangwa Darius — 2025-11-21T16:52:59Z

The School of Architecture and Built Environment (SABE) hosted the 5th Annual Africa Facility Management (FM) International Conference 2025. Held under the theme “Innovating Facilities Management for Africa's Transformation,” the conference reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the FM profession through research, knowledge exchange, and strengthened partnerships. Participants discussed a wide range of topics, including the intersection between Facility Management and smart, innovative solutions that are driving economic growth and unlocking new financing opportunities.

In her remarks, Dr. Josephine Malonza, the Dean of the School of Architecture and Built Environment, noted that Facilities Management is very critical profession in the built environment.

Dr. Josephine Malonza, the Dean of the School of Architecture and Built Environment, addressing conference participants

“It's takes 1 year to design a building, 2 years to construct it, but FM remains relevant for the rest of a building lifespan,” she said.

Africa's Facility Management market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.2%. With the continent expected to become the world's most urbanized region by 2030, the demand for FM services is likely to rise even further. This growth underscores the need for robust systems and structures to support FM practitioners and the expanding market across the continent.

On the sidelines of the conference, a delegation of Africa FM Association leaders was received by Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration. Ndikumana thanked the delegation for choosing Rwanda and the UR in particular to co-host this year's conference. He also encouraged them to strengthen collaboration with UR on academic and research initiatives, especially by leveraging the University's modern e-learning facilities and contributing through its online platforms.

Eng. Sherif Maged Khaled, Chair of Africa FM and his delegation met Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration

The delegation, in turn, commended UR for successfully hosting the conference and expressed appreciation for learning from Rwanda's strengths, including its safety, security, cleanliness, anti-corruption culture, strategic education policies, and vision to become a regional education hub including in Facility Management.

The visiting leadership delegation included: Eng. Sherif Maged Khaled, Chair of Africa FM; Maria Morapedi, Vice Chair; Muhammad Balogun, Board Member; Batabile Sibaca, President of SAFMA; Tom Mitchell from the USA; Uzoma Anugo, Board Member of Botswana FM Association; Eng. Samuel Opare, President of IFMA Ghana; Prof. Hikmot Koleoso from the University of Lagos; and Michael Mafa from Botswana.

Sections of participants during the conference

The Africa FM Association is the leading network and voice for Facility Management professionals on the continent, dedicated to accelerating FM advancement through research and knowledge sharing. During the conference, the Association extended an invitation to the University of Rwanda to participate in the 2026 conference, which will be hosted in Angola.

Conference participants group photo

UR hosts the international conference on trade, innovation and commercialization

Murangwa Darius — 2025-11-04T14:30:48Z

From 30 to 31 October 2025, the University of Rwanda (UR) hosted an international research conference on Trade, Development, Innovation, and Commercialization to facilitate knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration among academia, industry, and policymakers.

Organized by University of Rwanda's World Trade Organization (WTO), Rwanda Program in collaboration with AeTrade Group, this conference attracted approximately 200 participants and 50 exhibitors, representing SMEs, student-led innovations, and startups.

Under the theme “Enhancing the effectiveness of partnerships between Universities and Industries” within two days, participants shared experiences and insights on the prospects for Africa's trade and regional integration, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and examined the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in enhancing customer interactions and driving innovation in universities.

In her remarks, UR DVC for Finance Francoise Kayitare Tengera noted that the conference was timely and relevant. “As global challenges grow more complex ; from economic uncertainty to climate change; no single institution can act alone. Universities are centres of knowledge and discovery, while industries drive application and scale. When these forces unite, true transformation occurs”, she said.

Opening remarks by DVC for Finance Kayitare Tengera

Speaking on behalf of the AeTrade Group , the CEO Mr. Mulualem Syoum noted that Universities play a pivotal role in driving innovation among SMEs by providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and specialized talent, and technical support.

“We believe that transformative and sustainable societal change at a significant and impactful scale, requires collective action, working hand in hand with stakeholders across sectors to co-create solutions that serve Africans”, he said.

“Through structured collaboration models, universities help SMEs overcome their barriers of entry and increase their competitiveness in the regional and global markets”, he added.

During the conference, a parallel exhibition showcased SMEs, student-led innovations (startups), and products tailored to SME market demand. This platform created opportunities for networking and collaboration between university researchers, young innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, development partners, and other ecosystem actors.

Participants group photo

School of Architecture hosts Symposium on Healing Environments

Murangwa Darius — 2025-11-04T14:02:47Z

The University of Rwanda's School of Architecture and the Built Environment (SABE) hosted a symposium on “Healing Environments” on October 20, 2025, at the College of Science and Technology (CST). The event was held in partnership with Aalto University, Finland, as part of an ongoing Erasmus+ collaboration between the two institutions.

This was the second symposium in the series, following the first held in February 2024 under the theme “Future Horizons of Health.” The 2025 edition explored how architectural design can enhance healing spaces in Rwandan medical institutions; one of the focus areas of the WiT-Lab (World in Transition) program.

A section of participants to the symposium; Photo: Katie Garner

Opening the symposium, Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, UR's Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration, commended Aalto University; particularly Professor Saija Hollmén; for the strong partnership and continued support. He appreciated the opportunity given to four UR staff members who participated in program in Finland, supported through the Erasmus+ exchange program between UR and Aalto University.

DVC SPA Dr Raymond during his address

The sessions were moderated by Dr. Josephine Malonza, Dean of SABE. Key speakers included Prof. Saija Hollmén from Aalto University, Dr. Victor Mithi from the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), and Prof. Kerastin Kutcha from TU Hamburg, Germany. Discussions focused on sustainable design, circularity, and the role of architecture in promoting health and well-being.

Dr. Josephine Malonza, Dean of SABE and moderator of the symposium; Photo: Katie Garner

WiT-Lab fellows also presented findings from their Kirehe case study, showcasing innovative approaches to healthcare facility design in Rwanda.

Aalto WiT Programme is a 3,5-month, 24 ETCS interdisciplinary post-master's programme under the Aalto University World in Transition Research LAB (WiTLAB).

The symposium brought together stakeholders from the Ministry of Health, universities, and hospitals, fostering dialogue on integrating healing environment concepts into Rwanda's future health infrastructure.

Participants group photo ; Photo: Katie Garner

Researchers and Innovators gain advanced skills in entrepreneurship

Murangwa Darius — 2025-10-05T16:21:45Z

From 15–19 September 2025, the African Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things (ACEIoT) hosted an entrepreneurship training program for 40 researchers and innovators drawn from higher learning institutions, as well as public and private sector organizations.

The training was organized under the “Strengthening Rwanda's Research and Innovation Ecosystem through Training, Coordination and Collaboration” project, funded by the Research and Innovation Systems for Africa (RISA) Fund. The project seeks to build nationwide capacity through Training of Trainers programs to enhance research, entrepreneurship, and innovation skills.

Participants during the Entrepreneurship Training

It also promotes collaboration between academia and industry to drive market-relevant innovations, with the long-term goal of establishing a sustainable research and innovation ecosystem that supports Rwanda's economic growth.

In his remarks, Prof. Damien Hanyurwimfura, the Project Investigator and Centre Director, commended the various institutions that nominated participants for the training. He urged participants to share the knowledge and skills gained with colleagues at their respective institutions to maximize the program's impact.

The main objective of the training was to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to identify opportunities, create and manage businesses, and contribute to Rwanda's economic and social development. It also aimed to help researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and business professionals transform innovative ideas into commercially viable businesses.

Participants engaged in sessions covering key topics such as Ideation, Value Proposition, Business Modelling, Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Development, Validation, Entrepreneurial Finance, Go-To-Market Strategies, Team Building, Pitching, Facilitation, and Capstone Project Delivery, among others.

“This is a good opportunity for us, as we covered topics that are crucial in transforming an idea into a final product for commercialization. This aligns with the country's vision of promoting entrepreneurship,” said one of the participants

This initiative builds on the success of a previous project, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), which developed Rwanda's national technology transfer and commercialization strategy.

Like its predecessor, the current project emphasizes building national capacity through Training of Trainers to strengthen research, entrepreneurship, and innovation skills.