PRESS RELEASE: Oklahoma Christian University deepens 20-year Rwanda partnership, announces new Bachelor’s programme

Oklahoma Christian University (OC) on May 19, 2025, announced the strengthening of its enduring partnership with the Government of Rwanda, marking a new phase in its commitment to contributing to the nation’s human capital development. So far through this partnership, over 600 Rwandan students have gained US-accredited degrees, forming an extensive alumni network. Building on nearly two decades of successful education collaboration, OC is proud to officially announce its US-accredited Bachelor of Science in Business, Leadership, and Technology (BLT) programme in Rwanda. Oklahoma Christian University’s connection to the Republic of Rwanda spans almost two decades. This significant partnership began nearly 20 years ago in 2006, following a personal invitation from President Paul Kagame to OC President Mike O’Neal. Since then, OC has played a vital role in enhancing Rwanda’s human capital through undergraduate programmes on the main campus in Oklahoma, particularly through the Presidential Scholarship Program and graduate programmes in Rwanda. The university’s presence and programmes in Rwanda, including the MBA programme, which began in Kigali in 2012, are closely aligned with Rwanda’s national development goals and Vision 2050, aiming to cultivate skilled leaders for various sectors. This new undergraduate degree is rooted in a deep understanding of the Rwandan market. We have uniquely designed this programme to align with Rwanda’s national development goals, equipping students with the business, leadership, and technology skills needed to thrive in a global economy, all without the need to travel to the United States. Early bird applications are now open at oc.edu/rwanda for the May 2025 intake. “The relationship with Oklahoma Christian is without doubt among the most productive and meaningful that we enjoy with institutions of Higher Learning around the world.” - H.E. President Paul Kagame. The impact of OC’s programmes on Rwandan students and the nation has been substantial. Graduates return home to work and make a difference, demonstrating the value of the high-quality education provided by OC. The partnership has helped equip leaders who contribute across business, government, and non-profit sectors. Notably, OC has a formal agreement with the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) to educate cadets in specialised programmes, and RDF is actively expanding the programme. “Over the years we pride ourselves on Rwandan students representing OC’s largest international cohort and continue to excel in our programs.” — John Osborne M.B.A. Director of International Programs/Assistant Professor of Communication. By expanding its educational offerings in Rwanda to the undergraduate level, OC is confident that the number of Rwandan graduates will increase substantially, bringing real and practical benefits to Rwanda's government, business, and economic environment. “I think the lecturers in the OC program were really dedicated to the students ... We see a lot of online courses that are offered – sometimes for free. I will say, the value [in the OC online program] is the follow-up – that challenging environment where you’re really assessed on how you contribute.”— Patrick Cyusa (Class of 2014), Social Impact Incubator. “It’s flexible. You can work, travel, and study at the same time. It’s also giving you a global view of what studying is all about. You’re able to interact with people from across the world. And lastly, it’s very fair in terms of cost and payment. People can actually afford it.” — Priscilla Ruzibuka. Further enhancing accessibility to its programmes, Oklahoma Christian University is partnering with I&M Bank to launch a student loan scheme. This initiative provides crucial education financing solutions, making OC programmes more attainable for Rwandan students seeking to advance their education and careers.

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PRESS RELEASE: Oklahoma Christian University deepens 20-year Rwanda partnership, announces new Bachelor’s programme