Rwanda Defence Forces today launched a four-year cadet programme at Rwanda Military Academy, Gako (RMA Gako) in Bugesera District.

The event was presided over by the Minister of Defence, James Kabarebe while Dr Innocent Mugisha, the executive director of Higher Education Council (HEC) represented the education minister. 

According to a statement from RDF, the cadet programme will initially begin with one department, offering a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors in Social and Military Sciences, which will be done in conjunction with the University of Rwanda.

This department will be followed by one of physics, chemistry and engineering.

"The programme is mainly designed to build the capacity of the RDF officer corps, through provision of quality University level education to be able to contribute to the socio-economic transformation of Rwanda,” reads the statement.

The course is expected to produce graduates equipped with the necessary theories, professional knowledge, skills and aptitude to perform the responsibilities of a Junior Commander in the Rwanda Defence Forces both in war and peace time.

Since 1999, the Rwanda Military Academy (Gako) has been undertaking a one year officer cadet course for both civilians and serving soldiers.