Rwanda to adopt EAC varsities academic calendar

KIGALI - RWANDA’S Higher Education Council (HEC) has submitted a proposal to the cabinet, that if approved,  will see Rwanda’s institutions of higher learning  begin their academic year in September like other East African Community member states.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Higher Education Council Executive Director Prof Geoffrey Rugege (File Photo)

KIGALI - RWANDA’S Higher Education Council (HEC) has submitted a proposal to the cabinet, that if approved,  will see Rwanda’s institutions of higher learning  begin their academic year in September like other East African Community member states.

In Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, the academic year begins in September and ends in June, while in Rwanda it starts in January and ends in October.

The Executive Director of HEC, Prof. Geoffrey Rugege, yesterday said that the adjustment will be made once the proposal gets a go-ahead from the cabinet.

"The proposal is yet to be approved by the cabinet and hence nothing has taken place so far concerning the matter,” Rugege said adding that this academic year would not be affected.

Rugege said that the changes would be in line with the suggestion by the three original East African member states.
The academic harmonization process will also include changes in the current syllabus to suit the integration requirements.

According to Rugege, the proposed calendar would facilitate a smooth exchange of students from universities of the member states.

Ends