Rwanda Military Academy, Gako, has launched a four-year bachelor’s degree in Social and Military Science cadet course.

The programme, to be run in partnership with the University of Rwanda, was launched yesterday with 50 pioneer cadet officers enrolling.

Speaking at the launch, the commandant of the academy, Maj Gen Jean Bosco Kazura, said the event signifies the role of Rwanda Defence Forces in building a knowledge-based and militarily capable army for the nation.

He commended the government for working tirelessly to professionalise the army.

"The relations between University of Rwanda and Rwanda Military Academy should be applauded because this is a major step towards producing a professional army that will upload the true ethics of protecting our nation,” he said.

Gen Kazura said the academy will add more courses in Chemistry, Physics and others as they strive to produce responsible leaders and self disciplined officers.

 Dr Innocent Mugisha, the executive director of Higher Education Council, who represented Education minister, said the partnership aims at producing competent armed forces that are capable of serving the nation.

"This interface is healthy for both institutions and its worth mentioning that we will always support this collaboration every step of the way,” Dr Mugisha said.

Defence minister James Kabarebe, who was the chief guest at the function, said the course will add value to the cadets both militarily and academically.

He also urged the students to work hard towards their set targets and goals.

"I urge you to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that you accomplish this task effectively and efficiently. I also ask you to remain committed the values of RDF,” he said.

Kabarebe also toured the facilities that will serve current cadet candidates as well as more who will join as soon as the necessary infrastructure is put in place.

According to the Defence and Military spokesperson, Brig.Gen Joseph Nzabamwita, the target is to have 600 students at the academy by 2019 –  when the pioneers will be graduating.

 "This programme will transform civilians into soldiers but this time round, they are enrolling for both university education and military studies. We’ve started with 50 cadet officers who excelled at both physical and academic exams. We will add more courses such as Chemistry, Physics and Engineering but combine them with military studies as soon as we have the required infrastructure in place,” he said. 

Other courses that have been running at the academy will continue with no interruption.