ACCESS Project: Bridging Education and Industry for African Graduates

On November 11, 2024, INES-Ruhengeri launched an impactful Training of Trainers (ToT) under the theme "Bridging Education and Industry: Placing Students at the Heart of University-Business Collaboration." This initiative marks an exciting step toward equipping students with real-world skills and empowering educators to bridge academia and industry. Through practical solutions, innovation, and strong university-business ties, we aim to inspire our students and drive positive change within Rwanda and beyond.

In his opening remarks, INES-Ruhengeri Vice-Chancellor Fr. Dr. BARIBESHYA Jean Bosco warmly welcomed the participants—university lecturers dedicated to shaping the next generation of professionals. Fr. Dr. BARIBESHYA encouraged participants to approach the training with professionalism and engagement, highlighting the critical role of educators in preparing students to meet modern challenges. His call to action was clear: equip students to become problem solvers, contributing to both academia and the economy.

The first day was filled with valuable sessions and discussions, each aimed at transforming teaching approaches and preparing graduates for successful careers. Here are some of the key highlights:

✅ Introduction to the ACCESS Wiki Platform led by Fabrice Nkurunziza, offering participants insights into how digital platforms can enhance collaboration and resource sharing.

✅ Innovative Teaching Methods focusing on blended and e-learning approaches, presented by Dr. Aline DORIMANA. Dr. Dorimana introduced effective pedagogy and curriculum development techniques that embrace technology to offer flexible, student-centered learning.

✅ Enhancing Intellectual Competence in Classrooms facilitated by Dr. Aline Dorimana and Fabrice Nkurunziza, which explored strategies for engaging students in critical thinking and intellectual development.

✅ Leveraging Technology for Student Engagement presented by Jean Marie Vianney NYIRIMANA. This session demonstrated ways educators can utilize digital tools to create interactive learning environments and keep students motivated.

✅ Developing Adaptable Course Structures by Ms. MUHORAKEYE Marie Cecile, which focused on building courses that incorporate industry feedback and address emerging trends. This approach allows graduates to stay relevant and competitive in an evolving job market.

This Training of Trainers program is part of the ACCESS Project—African Centre for Career Enhancement & Skills Support, a DAAD-funded initiative led by Leipzig University (Germany). ACCESS aims to boost the employability of African graduates by aligning academic learning with industry needs. Partner institutions include IRGIB Africa University (Benin), KNUST (Ghana), Mount Kenya University (Kenya), University of Ibadan (Nigeria), Université de Tunis (Tunisia), and INES-Ruhengeri (Rwanda).