A delegation of 41 students from Harvard University is in Rwanda for a seven-day study visit aimed at deepening their understanding of the country’s history, culture, and development journey.

The group on Thursday, March 19, visited the headquarters of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), where they were received by Defence Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff.

During the visit, the students were briefed on the evolution of the RDF after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, highlighting its transformation into a professional force and its role in promoting peace and stability both in Rwanda and across the African continent.

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The engagement also covered the country's broader journey of unity and reconciliation, as well as development trajectory and efforts to sustain these achievements over time.

Earlier in the day, the delegation also met with the state minister for foreign affairs, Usta Kayitesi. Discussions centred on Rwanda’s diplomatic transformation and the strategies that have shaped its engagement on the global stage.

Multiple delegations of students from Harvard have conducted visits to Rwanda over the years. In these engagement, they have visited different institutions and key sites to deepen their understanding of the country, its history and development journey.