Four female students from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) have graduated with degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Oklahoma Christian University (OCU) in the United States. The graduates, Dianah Bwiza Kamanda, Anita Benegusenga, Cynthia Teta Ishimwe, and Cynthia Urujeni Bakareke, were awarded their degrees on May 2. ALSO READ: Rwanda, Oklahoma Christian University Celebrate 10 year partnership Mechanical engineering is a field that focuses on the design, development, and analysis of machines and mechanical systems. Professionals in this discipline work across a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, manufacturing, and healthcare. Their work involves designing power-producing and power-using machines, as well as managing their installation, operation, maintenance, and repair. ALSO READ: I&M Bank, Oklahoma Christian University launch student loan scheme The RDF offers several opportunities for mechanical engineers, including roles within its engineering department, which Col. Marie-Claire Muragijimana currently leads. Rwanda and Oklahoma Christian University share a longstanding partnership. In 2017, they marked 10 years of collaboration that had seen more than 400 Rwandan students pursue academic programs both in the U.S. and through the university’s MBA program in Kigali. Further supporting this partnership, I&M Bank Rwanda Plc and Oklahoma Christian University in Rwanda launched a student loan scheme in 2024 through the bank’s innovative EduFinance Programme. The initiative offers loans at a reduced interest rate of 14.5 percent, down from the usual 16.5 percent, repayable within 36 months, making it easier for more students to access quality education.
