Thirty years on, Rwanda’s education sector has made remarkable progress, greatly expanding opportunities for many Rwandans to study and excel, thereby driving the country’s development.
INES-Ruhengeri, the first private university in Musanze, has played a crucial role in transforming the region. Established in November 2003, under the name "Université Internationale au Rwanda (UNIR)”, the institution’s founders aimed at building signs of hope, contributing to unity and reconciliation, and backing the country’s sustainable development.
INES was granted degree-awarding powers on June 16, 2010, through Ministerial Order number 5 of 2010 from the Ministry of Education (MINEDUC). The first graduation ceremony took place on June 30 of the same year, during which INES-Ruhengeri also reoriented itself as an Institute of Applied Sciences to better align with labour market needs.
Prior to the establishment of INES-Ruhengeri, many people had to seek education in neighbouring countries. Now, INES-Ruhengeri offers essential knowledge and skills locally, significantly contributing to the nation’s development.
"Our goal has always been to develop the Musanze region and lift its inhabitants out of poverty,” stated Vice-Chancellor Father Jean Bosco Baribeshya.
Achievements
INES-Ruhengeri has significantly impacted the community through various outreach initiatives, such as constructing homes for underprivileged families and providing them with safe and secure shelter.
Their commitment to empowering traditional medical practitioners has enhanced healthcare services, blending modern and traditional knowledge for better patient outcomes.
Laboratories at the school have been at the forefront of improving food quality, ensuring that the community has access to safe and nutritious food.
Students and lecturers at INES, driven by research, entrepreneurship, and innovation, have pioneered numerous projects across different sectors. These initiatives have addressed critical issues and created sustainable solutions, improving the lives of countless citizens.
A hub for international students
The university’s welcoming environment has attracted over 700 international students from various countries.
Catherine, a South Sudanese student, chose to study in Rwanda because of the security and warm reception for foreigners.
Safari Garadi from Congo shared, "Here it’s like home; you don’t have a problem if you’re not a citizen. There is a discipline in Rwandan education, teaching us to work hard. As a new generation, we need to work hard to achieve more.”
INES-Ruhengeri currently boasts more than 5,000 students, 300 staff members, and over 700 international students. It has a total of 10,995 graduates, including the most recent cohort in October 2023. Additionally, the university has fostered the development of businesses catering to students’ needs, including accommodation and stationery.
Message from INES-Ruhengeri
"As we celebrate 30 years of liberation, INES-Ruhengeri reaffirms its commitment to fostering education and innovation, inspiring the next generation to build a brighter future for Rwanda. We believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. Together, we can continue to drive progress and achieve even greater heights.”
"We extend our gratitude to the government of Rwanda for creating policies and ensuring security, which allows institutions like ours to operate and thrive.”