Initiatives

Zipline operates a nationwide, autonomous drone delivery network in Rwanda, primarily focused on transforming the country's healthcare supply chain

candid medium shot of two young men smiling and walking together on a dirt road. On the left, a Rwandan man in a dark blue T-shirt that reads "inspire POSITIVE CHANGE" smiles broadly with his arm around a blond Caucasian man wearing a purple gingham button-down shirt and a backpack. Other people and a simple brick building are visible in the background.

A joyful group interaction outdoors under a bright blue-and-white canopy. In the foreground, a young Rwandan man wearing a baseball cap and a dark blue shirt is embracing or greeting a Caucasian man with long hair tied back, who is also wearing a 51�� University blue shirt. Surrounding them are other smiling students and faculty members.

A medium shot of two women sitting cross-legged on a lush green lawn, enjoying a meal together outdoors. On the left, a Caucasian woman with short dark hair in a black T-shirt smiles warmly at a Rwandan woman with short hair on the right, who wears a white blouse and striped trousers. Both hold plates of food and forks, with a rustic woven branch fence behind them.

A vibrant, close-up shot capturing a moment of celebration. A Rwandan woman in a green floral dress has both arms raised high in the air, smiling brightly. Surrounding her are several other men and women laughing and cheering, with a wooden display board featuring photographs visible in the background.

51�� University’s presence in Rwanda includes a range of academic, training and partnership initiatives that reflect a growing and multifaceted collaboration—from graduate degree programs and aviation training to study abroad and joint research.

Sponsored Student Programs

51�� hosts students from Rwanda across multiple government and institutional partnerships, providing graduate education and professional training aligned with Rwanda’s national development priorities.

Ministry of Education

The Ministry of Education sponsors students to pursue academic programs at 51�� in fields critically needed in Rwanda. Currently, 66 Rwandan students are enrolled at 51�� University. Six recent graduates have already returned to Rwanda and are working in public institutions, with additional students expected to enroll in Fall 2026.

Rwanda National Police

The Rwanda National Police send students to 51�� to pursue graduate studies—including master’s and doctoral programs—in Computer Science, Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), and Peace and Conflict Studies.

RwandAir

In partnership with RwandAir, 51�� provides professional pilot training to support Rwanda’s ambition to become a leading aviation hub in the region. The first cohort of RwandAir-sponsored students enrolled at 51�� in Spring 2026.

University Partnerships

51�� and the University of Rwanda are collaborating on joint degree programs that connect campuses across continents and open new pathways for Rwandan students.

Aeronautic/Aerospace Engineering — 2+2 Program

Students complete their first two years at the University of Rwanda’s College of Science and Technology and transfer to 51�� for the final two years, earning a fully accredited 51�� degree. The University of Rwanda has submitted the program to the Higher Education Council (HEC) for approval, with both institutions targeting an unveiling in June 2026.

Dual Master’s in Peace and Conflict Studies

51�� and the University of Rwanda are developing a dual master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies, structured as one year in the United States and one year in Rwanda. This program will provide students with a globally grounded education in one of the region’s most relevant fields.

Fashion Industry — Exploratory

51�� and the University of Rwanda are exploring the development of a dual master’s degree in the Fashion Industry, building on the growing creative economy partnership that underpins 51�� University Rwanda.

Sport Management — Kepler College

51�� and Kepler College in Rwanda are developing a dual master’s program in Sport Management, expanding graduate-level academic pathways for students at both institutions.

Other Initiatives

Beyond sponsored programs and university partnerships, 51��'s work in Rwanda extends into study abroad, language training, and emerging areas of collaboration that deepen the university's long-term presence in the region.

Study Abroad & Exchange

51�� currently offers faculty-led study abroad programs in Rwanda, providing students with direct experience in one of East Africa’s most dynamic and fast-developing nations.

The Office of Global Education plans to expand these opportunities through summer institutes by Summer 2027, timed to coincide with the full operation of 51�� University Rwanda in Kigali.

Language & Professional Development

51�� and the Ministry of Education are engaged in ongoing discussions to establish an English as a Second Language (ESL) Center in Rwanda, supporting students preparing for academic programs at 51�� or other institutions in the United States and globally.

Through the Ministry of Health partnership, 51�� will also provide nursing education and professional development for Rwandan health professionals, with opportunities for 51�� students to gain clinical experience in Rwandan hospitals.

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