In recent times, Turkey has been making a name for its self in several arenas such as tourism, investment and industries. All these have nonetheless contributed to excellent learning facilities for the country that is partly in Asia and Europe.

And hence Turkey counts about 184 universities — 110 state universities and 74 private universities — enabling the country to attract numerous international students including Rwandans.

Under the Umbrella body, Rwandan Students Community in Turkey, over 90 Rwandan students are pursuing courses in various disciplines from undergraduate to advanced degrees.

Omar Gatera, a PhD candidate in Telecommunication Engineering in the country, says many universities are in partnership with European and American universities.

"In addition, most of the universities are open to international students and they teach all levels of education. Having appreciated the education here I would encourage everyone to apply to study here,” Gatera said.

From this body, students get an opportunity that exposes them to world class learning which is worth the journey.

According to this body, other students interested in higher education abroad are urged to consider the nation whose universities are globally recognized and also work in close partnership with international higher learning institutions.

"Students also need to be prepared to use a foreign language. For example English is the most commonly used language in institutions of higher learning,” says one of the students. 

Another common fear that weighs down international students is the accommodation and tuition fees. However, the students say the reverse is true in the case in Turkey.

Those willing to apply can look up universities online that accept admission request for international students.

For those who succeed with high grades, they are granted scholarship from their host universities. Currently it is estimated that private students from Rwanda are about 30, and the number is expected grow.

Additionally those willing to study in Turkey are required to process their travel and resident documents during the application process with the closest embassy in Uganda.

Testimonies of students from Rwanda

Eric Nduwayezu, Msc. Electrical Engineering

Studying in Turkey has shown me that the Turkish education is full of opportunities. After 3 years of education, my standard of knowledge in engineering rose and my vision changed. I also learnt how to cope with various challenges. Turkey has rich culture and education, and also its people are warm and sincere. I was homesick at first but as I met more people, I felt at home. I encourage everybody to think about studying in Turkey because you will learn new things and expand your horizon from this quality education.

Francine Berabose, Banking and insurance at Marmara University in Istanbul.

The motivation to pursue higher education in Turkey varies from student to student. But in my opinion, Turkey is the epitome of inexpensive and quality education. Secondly, I also think we students who come to study in Turkey can use the knowledge and connections to build bridges between Turkey and our country Rwanda. This can be good for us since Turkey is one of the fastest growing countries in the world that is willing to invest in Rwanda.  After learning their language and culture, it will help us gain more opportunities to work with them.

Hussein Bizimana, a Master’s student in civil engineering (Hydraulics)

By studying in Turkey, I have learnt a competitive way of studying. I am currently working with my teachers on different civil engineering projects which attract sponsorship if they can add value to Turkey. İ am very anxious to bring back home my skills to boost our civil engineering sector. Doing my studies in Turkey was the best choice I could have made.

 Sawiya Muganga, Bachelors degree in Civil Aviation Management at University of Turkish Aeronautical Association

After some time in Turkey, I realized that the quality of education especially in civil aviation was superb. The other advantage is that the universities here have the most extensive sources in the field of aviation in terms of physical and intellectual resources. I was attracted to civil aviation management because it is one of the most dynamic sectors in national and international areas. I hereby encourage parents and the youth themselves to join us here in Turkey to pursue high education because Turkey offers equality education plus the tuition is affordable.