In a recent visit to the Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK), a delegation from the USAID Ireme project underscored the pivotal role of medical students in shaping the future of Rwanda.
The visit, which occurred on March 26, provided an opportunity for the USAID Ireme Project, spearheaded by the Management Sciences for Health (MSH), to assess the progress of initiatives supported by the project.
During the visit, accompanied by ICK’s Vice-Chancellor, the delegation toured various facilities within the institution, including classrooms, accommodations, dining areas, and skills laboratories.
Dr. Dan Schwarz, leading the visiting delegation and serving as the Vice President of Global Health Systems Innovation, delivered a poignant message to the medical students of ICK. He emphasized the profound responsibility they bear as future leaders of Rwanda, urging them to leverage the opportunities presented to them and excel in their endeavors.
“As stewards of Rwanda’s future, it is you—the medical students of ICK—who will shape the trajectory of our nation,” remarked Dr. Schwarz. “While external support will continue, the onus of building a prosperous tomorrow, rests squarely on your shoulders. Your dedication today will pave the way for a healthier and more prosperous Rwanda tomorrow.”
Expressing gratitude for ICK’s integral role in reinforcing the nation’s healthcare workforce, Dr. Schwarz commended the institution for its commitment to training future medical practitioners.
Father Prof. Fidèle Dushimimana, Vice-Chancellor of ICK, echoed Dr. Schwarz’s sentiments, emphasizing the institution’s alignment with the broader healthcare objectives of the Catholic Church and the Rwandan government.
He highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Kabgayi Catholic Diocese Institute and the Ministry of Health in Rwanda to introduce health programs at ICK, including the A1 Diploma in nursing and midwifery.
Father Prof. Dushimimana extended heartfelt appreciation to the USAID Ireme project for its invaluable support, particularly in providing scholarships to 98 students enrolled in the Program of Midwifery at ICK. He emphasized the significance of such assistance in advancing the institution’s contribution to Rwanda’s healthcare landscape.
“We are profoundly grateful to USAID Ireme for their generous provision of 98 scholarships in the Department of Midwifery,” expressed Father Prof. Dushimimana. “This support not only empowers our students but also aligns with the nation’s strategic objective of augmenting the healthcare workforce through initiatives like the Ministry of Health’s 4×4 program.”
The USAID Ireme project granted 500 scholarships in the program of midwifery to three private universities, Kibogora Polytechnic received 162 scholarships in A1 and A0, ICK was given 98 scholarships in A1 and East Africa Christian was given 240 scholarships in both A1 and A0.
