Kigali Independent University (ULK) and ULK Polytechnic Institute (UPI) have officially launched the 2025/2026 academic year, reaffirming their commitment to collaboration and delivering quality education.
This year marks a milestone, with ULK introducing seven new master's degree programmes and UPI launching Bachelor of Technology (A0) courses in various disciplines.
The launch ceremony, held on Monday, October 6, at ULK’s Kigali campus, was graced by the President and Founder of ULK and UPI, Prof. Dr. Rwigamba Balinda; the Chancellor of both institutions, Prof. Jean Marie Vianney Kayishema; the ULK Vice Chancellor, Dr. Cyprien Sikubwabo; the UPI Principal, Eng. Jean Pierre Musabyimana; and UPI Vice Principal for Academic Affairs, Daniel Balinda, among other officials.
In his address, Prof. Rwigamba underscored the principles, values, and ethics that guide ULK and UPI in their mission to deliver education rooted in integrity, excellence, and innovation. He said the institutions strive to produce graduates who are not only academically competent but also serve as role models and agents of positive change in their communities and beyond.
"We put in a lot of effort every day to ensure that students receive education that meets modern standards,” he said. "This involves recruiting qualified and competent lecturers from Rwanda and across Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria.”
He also highlighted the institutions’ state-of-the-art facilities, including modern libraries, advanced computer laboratories, and sports infrastructure, which together create a conducive learning environment. Prof. Rwigamba noted that ULK and UPI continue to strengthen partnerships with local and international institutions to promote academic excellence and innovation.
As part of their academic expansion, UPI has introduced new programmes in applied sciences, now offering Bachelor of Technology (A0/BTech) degrees in several departments. Meanwhile, ULK has launched seven new master's degree programmes, with student registration already underway.
The new master's programmes at ULK include: