INES-Ruhengeri Strengthens Ties with University of Parma through Strategic Academic Seminar

On June 6, 2025 , A delegation from INES-Ruhengeri, led by the Vice Chancellor  Fr. Dr. Jean Bosco Baribeshya, was warmly received at the University of Parma for a seminar aimed at strengthening academic and research collaboration between Rwandan and European higher learning institutions.

The visit was organized in the framework of the GREATER Project (Growing Rwanda Energy Awareness Through highER education), an EU-funded initiative coordinated by the University of Parma. The event brought together institutional leaders, researchers, and academics to explore new pathways for international cooperation in higher education.

During the seminar, Fr. Dr. Baribeshya delivered the opening remarks, highlighting INES-Ruhengeri’s commitment to global engagement, academic excellence, and innovation. He emphasized that partnerships such as this are crucial to advancing Africa’s education systems and fostering mutual growth.

The keynote presentation was delivered by Dr. Theodore Habimana, Director of the Computer Science Department at INES-Ruhengeri, under the theme:
“Higher Education in Rwanda: Pathways for European-Rwandan Collaboration in Education and Research.”

Dr. Habimana offered a comprehensive overview of Rwanda’s higher education landscape, focusing on national strategies defined in the Education Sector Strategic Plan II (ESSP 2024–2029). He emphasized Rwanda’s ambition to become a regional hub for higher learning, driven by strategic investments in science, technology, innovation, and digital education.

The presentation also shed light on the roles of key institutions such as the Higher Education Council (HEC), Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB), Rwanda TVET Board (RTB), and the National Examination and School Inspection Authority (NESA) in shaping Rwanda’s education policies.

Drawing from INES-Ruhengeri’s experience, Dr. Habimana highlighted the university’s international footprint, with a student body representing over 21 countries, and its active engagement in mobility, research, and joint innovation projects.

The delegation invited the University of Parma and other European institutions to collaborate through:

• Joint research projects

• Double-degree programs

• Staff and student exchanges

• Co-supervision of postgraduate theses

• Innovation partnerships that address real-world challenges

This strategic engagement marks a promising chapter in Euro-African academic cooperation, positioning INES-Ruhengeri as a key partner in driving sustainable development through education and research.