The University of Kigali (UoK) has been selected as the exclusive beneficiary of the prestigious Canadian International Development Scholarship (BCDI 2030) programme in Rwanda. Hosted by Concordia University of Edmonton, Canada, this initiative will fully fund six outstanding UoK students to pursue Master’s programmes in Information Security Systems Management (MISSM) and Information Security and Assurance Management (MISAM) from 2025 to 2030. ALSO READ: University of Kigali sends top IT students to Czech Republic for exchange programme This selection positions UoK among a select group of African universities benefiting from the BCDI 2030 initiative, further solidifying its role as a regional leader in IT and cybersecurity education. The programme is designed to equip exceptional students with the advanced skills needed to address contemporary cybersecurity challenges and contribute to Rwanda’s ongoing digital transformation. The BCDI 2030 Scholarship will be awarded in three cohorts, with two students selected each year. The first cohort will study from September 1, 2025, to April 30, 2027; the second cohort from September 1, 2026, to April 30, 2028; and the third cohort from September 1, 2027, to April 30, 2029. ALSO READ: FEATURED: UoK students set for life-changing exchange programme in Cyprus To ensure diversity and promote gender inclusion, the programme requires that at least four of the six selected students be female. Comprehensive scholarship benefits The BCDI 2030 Scholarship covers all essential expenses for the selected students. This includes full tuition for the MISSM or MISAM programmes, health and dental insurance throughout their studies, and visa application and biometric fees. The scholarship also provides round-trip airfare from Kigali to Edmonton, Canada, a laptop for each student, sponsorship for one international cybersecurity conference, and 8.5 hours of monthly counseling services from Concordia University’s International Office. Additionally, students will take four career-oriented courses, including a foundational cybersecurity course. Selection process The University of Kigali’s School of Computing and Information Technology will lead the selection process. Eligible students must be enrolled in one of the following undergraduate programmes: Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) – Honours, Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS) – Honours, or Bachelor of Business Information Technology (BBIT) – Honours. The process begins with UoK nominating the top three students from each eligible programme based on academic performance. If the top three do not meet gender diversity requirements, additional candidates will be considered. A selection committee will then review applications, conduct interviews, and guide the selected students through the admission process. Once chosen, students will receive waived application fees and official scholarship offer letters, followed by visa application processing. This initiative offers Rwandan students a world-class education, exposure to the latest cybersecurity advancements, and the chance to engage in international research collaborations. Professor Ogechi Adeola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration and Human Resources, stated, This scholarship not only strengthens our university’s academic and research capabilities but also creates opportunities for our students and faculty, empowering them to engage with the latest developments in computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital innovation.” “As we continue on this journey of growth, I urge all stakeholders to support and sustain these valuable initiatives. Together, we are shaping a future where the University of Kigali stands as a beacon of excellence in technology and education on the global stage. Once again, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the leadership and the School of Computing and IT for their vision, hard work, and dedication. Your contributions are truly invaluable, and I look forward to witnessing even greater achievements in the years ahead, he said. Dr Wilson Musoni, Dean of the School of Computing and Information Technology at UoK, who played a role in securing the scholarship for the university, emphasised the significance of this achievement: This scholarship is a transformational opportunity for our students and a testament to the quality of education at the University of Kigali. By training the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, we are strengthening Rwanda’s role in global digital security. For further details, interested students are encouraged to visit the University of Kigali’s official website or contact the School of Computing and Information Technology. The University of Kigali has established robust global partnerships with renowned institutions such as Ostrava University (Czech Republic), the University of Calgary (Canada), and the University of Nicosia (Cyprus). These collaborations enable student and faculty exchange programmes, joint research initiatives, and curriculum development, ensuring that UoK continues to lead in global academic excellence. Additionally, the university is poised for growth with the launch of a state-of-the-art permanent campus, which will accommodate over 12,000 students. About Concordia University of Edmonton Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE) is a Canadian institution renowned for its innovative research and excellence in cybersecurity education. CUE’s programmes are designed to equip students with the skills necessary to combat the ever-evolving digital threats facing the world today. Founded in 1921 as Concordia College, CUE is now an independent, modern university located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programmes across Arts, Science, Management, Education, Public Health, and Information Technology. Known for its small class sizes and personalised learning experience, CUE ensures that students receive individualised attention from its distinguished faculty. The university houses research centres focused on health sciences, artificial intelligence, and environmental sustainability, contributing to advancements both locally and globally. CUE also boasts a diverse and inclusive campus culture, attracting students from various backgrounds and nationalities. The university integrates academic rigor with opportunities for personal and professional growth, offering co-curricular activities, internships, and study-abroad programmes. As an institution committed to leadership, ethics, and social responsibility, Concordia University of Edmonton prepares its graduates to make meaningful contributions to society while excelling in their respective fields.
