Nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Kivu in Rwanda’s south western region, Kibogora Polytechnic stands as a testament to the transformative power of education.
In 2012, parents, residents and the Free Methodist Church of Rwanda conceived an idea to establish a higher institution of learning, today it has rapidly become a beacon of education in the region, offering students an opportunity to pursue their dreams without having to travel far from home.
As the first university-level institution in Rwanda’s Western Province, Kibogora Polytechnic has earned a special place in the hearts of the community it serves.
This university has a guiding principle of “Educating People with a Positive Impact on their Socio-Economic and Spiritual Lives.” This commitment reflects an institution’s deep commitment to providing an education that goes beyond academic achievement. It aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation to improve not only personal lives but also communities.
Rusizi Campus opens doors
Efforts to expand access to education are particularly evident in development of the Rusizi town campus, located in the southwestern town of Rusizi which serves students not only from Rwanda but also from neighboring countries like Burundi and the DRC.
Josue Michel Ntaganira, the Principal of the Rusizi Campus of Kibogora Polytechnic
Josue Michel Ntaganira, the Principal of the Rusizi Campus of Kibogora Polytechnic underscores that Kibogora Polytechnic’s creation aligns with Rwanda’s broader strategic vision, particularly the goal of transforming the country into a knowledge-based economy. This direction, championed by His Excellency Paul Kagame, has spurred investment in education across the nation.
Ntaganira emphasizes that the institution plays a pivotal role in advancing the country’s agenda by providing high-quality education that prepares students to contribute to Rwanda’s socio-economic growth.
Owned by the Free Methodist Church of Rwanda, Kibogora Polytechnic welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds, embodying a spirit of inclusivity and diversity. The institution was founded in response to the growing demand for higher education in Rwanda’s southwestern region, a need that previously drove students to seek education in distant cities or even across borders into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The university offers a variety of courses and programs leading to recognized qualifications, including pre-bachelor degrees, bachelor’s degrees, certificates, and diplomas. These programs span several fields of study, ensuring that students can pursue their passions while gaining the skills needed in today’s job market.
Ntaganira notes that Kibogora Polytechnic continues to explore new ways to innovate and expand its offerings. The university’s leadership is committed to developing more programs and initiatives that align with Rwanda’s vision for a knowledge-based economy.
Kibogora Polytechnic’s journey is one of resilience, vision, and partnership. Its commitment to educating students with a focus on socio-economic and spiritual development continues to shape the lives of young people from across Rwanda and the region. As it looks to the future, Kibogora Polytechnic is poised to remain a key player in Rwanda’s educational landscape, providing a path for students to succeed in both their professional and personal lives.
