Over 500 were gathered in Kigali for a three day International Scientific Conference organized by the University of Rwanda in collaboration with UR Sweden Program for Research, Higher Education and Institutional Advancement. The conference has attracted people from around the world in academia, private sector and institutions with a high stake in research.
In his opening remarks, Dr Papias Musafiri the Education Minister commended the University of Rwanda for organizing a high level research conference which brought together varied participants whose joint aim is to contribute to social economic transformation. He hailed the recent research ranking that placed the University of Rwanda at the second position of most influential University in the region due to the quality and impact of its publications.
Key note speech by Hon. Minister of Education
“A research led University should be characterized by the quality and quantity of its research outputs” he said, adding that the participation of private sector in the conference was a key because it is where the research output finds the way for optimum usage.
Speaking on the occasion Prof Phil Cotton, the University of Rwanda Vice Chancellor commended the University faculty for their hard work and active research collaboration they have established. He also cheered participants who, according to him have helped the University to embrace the new research culture.
The University Vice Chancellor welcoming participants in the conference
“The research is going to put the University in position of prestige that faculty and graduates will be proud of” Cotton said.
The conference is supported by UR-Sweden Program for Research, Higher Education and Institutional Advancement. Speaking on behalf of the Ambassador of Sweden in Rwanda, Dr Emilia Molnar hailed the conference undertaking which is in line with the core objective of Sweden Program of contributing for research capacity development in Rwanda.
Dr Emilia Molnar during her address
Emilia who is the Senior Programme Manager for Research and Higher Education at Swedish Embassy added that the conference is of paramount significance as it helps researchers to showcase the research output they have done. She also added that it is a learning opportunity for organizing huge conference which will ultimately enable the University to build a scientific research capacity in Rwanda and beyond.
She concluded by giving credits to all people behind the milestone that the University continue to achieve and encouraged for interdisciplinary approach research which according to her is catalyst to address development Challenges.
The conference will feature crosscutting themes ranging from Science, Innovation and Climate change to Agribusiness, Health, Economy and ICT.
More Photos
From right; Prof Lyambabaje ES- IUCEA and Dr Gasingirwa DG Science & Technology-MINEDUC
First line from right-clockwise ; Amb. Dr Murigande UR-DVC for Institutional Advancement, Prof. Ijumba UR-DVC Academics & Research, Mr Rubingisa DVC Admin & Finance and Prof. Kato UR Director for Research & Postgraduate
Mr Ndikumana (right), the overall Coordinator of UR Sweden program & Ms Kayitare Principal of UR College of Business & Ecomics
A section of participants during the Conference
Participants group photo
By Darius Murangwa
Communications Officer