The University of Kigali, through its School of Information Technology (IT), will send six top-performing students to the University of Ostrava in the Czech Republic for a four-month exchange programme.

The selected students will study three courses, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Cybersecurity. This announcement was made during an event at the University of Kigali on September 6.

The exchange programme between the University of Ostrava and the University of Kigali allows students from both institutions to experience each other’s academic environments.

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Dr Wilson Musoni, Dean of the School of Computing and IT, explained that the chosen students, recognised for their outstanding performance, will receive a monthly allowance of 600 euros.

He also assured that the school will continue to support them throughout their stay, with regular online meetings to monitor their progress.

Prof Manasseh Nshuti, Chairman of the Board of Promoters, while addressing the parents and the students, emphasised the importance of student development, highlighting the institution’s diverse teaching staff.

"We want the development of the students, which is why we have many teachers from different countries. Our goal is for students to become important people for the country and the world at large,” he said.

He also stressed the joint responsibility of parents and educators in guiding students. "These are children. As parents and teachers, we have to work together to raise them. These students have worked well, but they must keep it up. They still have a long journey ahead. This is an ongoing process, so parents need to support them, and the students must keep working hard,” he said.

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Speaking about the institution’s partnerships, Nshuti noted that there are more than five such collaborations in Africa and Europe, including the one with the Czech Republic.

"Sending them abroad will help them develop themselves. IT is crucial and can change both the country and the student’s life, but studying it requires knowledge,” he explained.

"The job market will welcome you if you stay focused. Have goals, and don’t let distractions like sleep or other things get in the way. You will encounter different cultures, and some people may try to distract you, but stay disciplined,” he added.

He also urged the students to represent Rwanda proudly. "Show that Rwanda has the capacity and strong representatives. Represent your country and culture well, study diligently, and be a good example for others.”

Prof Felix Maringe, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, discussed the significance of the partnership between his institution and the University of Ostrava.

He said: "The connection of our institution to the world, to the rest of the world, is extremely important. The knowledge that we can develop here ourselves as an institution can never be enough to reflect on the broader nature of issues that are happening in the world,” he said.

Maringe noted the value of the student exchange programmes that are part of this collaboration, particularly in nurturing future leaders.

"Partnerships, particularly those that involve student exchange, help us create a core of leadership amongst students who understand the realities of the world not just from the narrow perspective of our country, but from a broader perspective of the globe and of the world,” he added.

Deputy Vice Chancellor (DVCA), Prof Ogechi Adeola, emphasized the importance of seizing this rare opportunity. She urged the students to take full advantage of the chance to study abroad, while also requesting strong parental support throughout their time in Europe.

"This is an opportunity that comes once in a while,” Adeola noted. "You must take it seriously and approach it with focus and commitment. Studying at Ostrava University, especially in fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and Cybersecurity, is an incredible experience that will shape your future.”

In addition to the university&039;s support, Professor Adeola stressed the critical role of parents during this period. "We request that parents stay close and maintain regular communication with their children while they are in Europe. Your support and guidance are vital to helping them stay disciplined and focused during this important chapter of their lives.”

Mari Louise Tuyisenge, a second-year Computer Science student, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, saying, "I’m happy because not everyone gets this chance, and I plan to make the most of it.

"This opportunity will help me gain valuable experience, allowing me to grow and change my life. Being able to practice what I learn will give me an advantage in the job market, where experience is important in securing a good position,” she added.

Abdul Karim Harerimana, a parent, shared his joy and hopes for his child’s future. "I’m happy my child received this opportunity. As a parent, I believe this will help my child progress from one level to the next, and with each step, they will gain more knowledge and skills. This growth will benefit them and contribute to our country's development and make us proud.”