On June 20, Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Hon. Gaspard Twagirayezu, visited the Institute of Applied Sciences (INES-Ruhengeri). During his visit, he engaged with both the staff and students of the institution.
Minister Twagirayezu praised INES-Ruhengeri for its significant contribution to Rwanda’s education sector.
He emphasized the importance of private educational institutions in serving the public interest. “Even though INES is a private institution, education is a public business because, at the end of the day, you are serving the public,” he stated.
The Minister reassured everyone that the Ministry of Education would continue to support higher learning institutions in their efforts.
While interacting with students, Minister Twagirayezu expressed his delight in meeting international students, highlighting that their presence at INES-Ruhengeri benefits the country.
He also addressed several questions from the students.
International students inquired about the possibility of receiving government scholarships, while other students suggested increasing opportunities for those attending private universities, similar to those available for public university students.
The Minister responded that government scholarships for international students are possible but depend on the institution and its collaboration with the government.
During his visit, Minister Twagirayezu also toured the INES laboratories dedicated to teaching applied sciences.
INES-Ruhengeri, originally named “Université Internationale au Rwanda (UNIR),” officially opened on November 17, 2003, through an initiative by the Ruhengeri Catholic Diocese. President Paul Kagame laid the foundation stone on June 30, 2003. Today, INES-Ruhengeri educates over 5,000 students, including about 800 international students, and has graduated approximately 11,000 students.