Today, on April 25, 2024, the senior management team of Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK), led by Vice Chancellor Father Prof. Fidèle Dushimimana, warmly welcomed Dr. John Cech, President of Carroll College in the United States.
The meeting took place at the ICK Headquarters. Dr. Cech was accompanied by Atete Rugege, Head of Gashora Girls Academy of Science and Technology, as both Gashora and Carroll have an existing collaborative relationship.
Father Prof. Fidèle Dushimimana, in his welcoming address, provided an overview of ICK’s history and highlighted the importance of shared academic programs between ICK and Carroll College, which can strengthen their collaboration.
“It’s noteworthy that ICK and Carroll College offer similar academic programs in areas of business studies, health sciences, communication studies, education, environmental studies and social sciences. These shared programs present a wonderful opportunity to develop the strong collaborative relationship between our two universities,” remarked Father Prof. Dushimimana.
He also emphasized that ICK, established in 2002 by the Catholic Diocese of Kabgayi and fully accredited by the Government of Rwanda in 2010, is dedicated to its mission, guided by the principles outlined in Ex Corde Ecclesia. Additionally, he highlighted ICK’s commitment to providing educational opportunities for orphans and students from disadvantaged backgrounds, especially in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Dr. John Cech, speaking to ICK News, expressed his enthusiasm for visiting Rwanda and Africa for the first time. He emphasized his eagerness to explore ways for both universities to expand cooperation.
“ICK is a treasure for the country of Rwanda and I just look forward to the opportunity; first, work together and create opportunities for collaboration. I would love to see if we can get something going here in the next year,” said Dr. Cech.
He also mentioned ongoing discussions with the Vice Chancellor of ICK and extended an invitation for him to visit Carroll College in the USA to further explore potential collaborations, student exchanges, and opportunities for students from both institutions.
Beyond discussions, the delegation, accompanied by ICK authorities, toured various parts of the ICK campus, including classrooms, infrastructures, and facilities like the Smart Education Project, Computer Lab 1, Radio & TV Studio, English Learning Resources Center, Library, and ICK News’ newsroom. They also visited the health program infrastructures at the ICK’ second Campus, formerly known as Ste Elizabeth School of Nursing and Midwifery.
Additionally, the team paid a courtesy visit to the Kabgayi Diocese, where they were received by Bishop Balthazar Ntivuguruzwa, and visited the Minor Basilica of Kabgayi.
Carroll College, located in Helena, Montana, is a private Catholic college with a century-old legacy. Known for its strong programs in sciences, engineering, computer science, business, communications, and languages. Carroll College is committed to academic excellence and global collaboration.
