KIGALI - Kigali Institute of Education (KIE) will soon establish a centre for gender studies that will train gender experts and conduct research.

This was revealed yesterday by the institute’s Rector, Prof George Njoroge during the International Conference on Gender Centres in Africa held yesterday at Le Printemps Hotel in Kimironko.

The Centre of Gender, Culture and Development is expected to start next year.

Njoroge said that research will also help in structuring polices to properly combat gender-based violence.

Oda Gasinzigwa, the Chief Gender Monitor, said that despite Rwanda’s noticeable progress on gender equality, there has been lack of research for statistical data to be used in proper tackling of gender issues.

"The centre will help us with research to provide realistic statistics for better results on gender equality instead of just discussing,” she said.

In her presentation, Shirley Randell, who will be the director of the centre, said that it will be a prerequisite for every teacher to enrol for gender studies.

"We shall ensure that every teacher who graduates from KIE has undertaken gender studies,” she said.

Ends