On March 13, 2025, the Center for Equity and Inclusiveness at the University of Kigali, in collaboration with the University of Rwanda’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences, successfully hosted a workshop on Inclusive Pedagogy themed “Breaking Barriers in Education: Inclusive, Rehabilitation, and Technology (BERT).” This event underscored the University of Kigali’s commitment to promoting inclusive education within Rwanda’s higher education sector. Speaking at the event, Samuel Kabera, Director of the Center for Equity and Inclusiveness at the University of Kigali, highlighted the importance of inclusive teaching practices that cater to diverse learners. “The workshop aims to foster a deeper understanding of inclusive teaching practices, equipping educators with practical strategies to create accessible learning environments for students of all abilities,” Kabera said. The discussions centred on integrating rehabilitation and technology in education to ensure no learner is left behind. The workshop featured interactive sessions, expert panel discussions, and demonstrations of cutting-edge assistive tools designed to support students with disabilities. Participants, including educators, researchers, and policymakers, discussed overcoming educational barriers and promoting equitable learning opportunities. Kabera emphasised, “By integrating technology and evidence-based practices, we can bridge gaps in education and ensure that no learner is left behind.” The Center for Equity and Inclusiveness is no stranger to initiatives to advance inclusivity. On March 7, 2025, the centre hosted a delegation from Finland, providing valuable engagement with deaf students and showcasing the University of Kigali’s inclusive education practices. This visit was a step towards formalising collaborations through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which would expand accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including the visually impaired. In addition, the University of Kigali celebrated another milestone on March 14, 2025, as it marked the successful completion of the Final Sign Language Assessment for students who had just concluded a four-month intensive training programme. This achievement highlights the university’s dedication to breaking communication barriers and advocating for inclusivity, especially for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. The Center for Equity and Inclusiveness is set to introduce new certificate programmes starting on May 5, 2025. These programmes include Certificate in Autism Studies, Psychological Counseling and Leadership, Dyslexia Studies, and Special Needs and Inclusive Education Management. These initiatives further reflect the university’s ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive academic environment and provide opportunities for all learners to thrive. The University of Kigali continues to promote equity and inclusiveness in Rwanda, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to ensuring accessible education for all.
