MUHANGA–The Minister of Education, Dr. Daphrose Gahakwa, last Sunday commissioned an English Language Resource Centre constructed by a US-based NGO, the Global Peace Exchange, at the Universite Catholique de Kabgayi (UCK).

The centre named before Monsignor William A. Kerr, is expected to boost the use of English as the new language of instruction in education.

The inauguration ceremony also coincided with a discussion centering on cross-cultural dialogue between Rwanda and the United States of America.

Commending the Global Peace Exchange for opening this centre, Gahakwa said: "The duties of this centre mirror the duties of both the ministry and the university. This was certainly a monumental step in the advancement of education and cross-cultural dialogue in Rwanda.

Creation of such a centre is a  promising step in the right direction.”
The Global Peace Exchange’s UCK Project Manager, Dustin Daniels, described the opening of the centre as a sign of commitment to using English in education in Rwanda, noting that the centre will be an important resource to the people of Gitarama.

During the dialogue, the Bishop of Kabgayi, who is also the Rector of UCK, spoke on a wide range of topics ranging from Rwandan culture and literature to American culture and volunteer work being undertaken by students from Florida State University and the Global Peace Exchange in the area.

The ceremony was marked by traditional dances performed by US students from Florida State University and Rwandan students.At the occasion singer and songwriter, Tom Close also  performed.

The centre was dedicated to the late Monsignor Kerr in honor of his tireless pursuit of intercultural and interfaith dialogue throughout his life and career.

He was a mentor, friend, and supporter of the members of the Global Peace Exchange during his time as Executive Director of the Claude Pepper Center for Intercultural Dialogue at Florida State University.

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