The University of Kigali Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management successfully hosted a Career Mentorship and Guidance Workshop on May 9, 2025, bringing together leading industry experts to mentor and engage students pursuing degrees in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Speaking during the opening of the workshop, Prof George Kimathi, the Vice Chancellor, University of Kigali, affirmed the University’s commitment to fostering practical skills for its students. The workshop forms part of the University’s commitment to equipping students with practical skills and professional insights aligned with Rwanda’s Vision 2050, the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST1), and regional frameworks including the African Union Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event featured keynote presentations and expert panels focusing on the future of logistics, employer expectations, customs operations, warehousing, freight forwarding, and job readiness. The opening session was delivered by David Rwigema, Chairman of the Freight Forwarders Association in Rwanda, who emphasised the strategic importance of logistics in driving economic development and regional integration. Additional speakers included: Marie-Yvonne Umuhoza, ITM Holding – What Employers Want: Skills and Attributes for SCM Jobs Jeanette Uwera, Rwanda Revenue Authority – Insights into Customs Operations and Warehousing Myriam Izabayo, Africa Global Logistics – Freight and Forwarding/Warehousing Management Terhas Legesse, Hire Me Africa – Effective Job Search Strategies An expert panel moderated by Olivier Akili brought together voices from across the logistics sector including: Mugambage Mundane, Managing Director, Pioneer Logistics Martin Gachukia, Academic Registrar, University of Kigali Jean-Claude Ndatumuremyi, Managing Director, Transco Logistics Joseph Akumuntu, Faculty, University of Kigali Closing remarks were delivered by Dr Ronald Kwena, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research, Innovation and Enterprise at the University of Kigali, who reiterated the University’s role in developing industry-relevant, policy-aligned academic programs. “Through initiatives like this workshop, we are actively contributing to national and continental goals. We are building a workforce prepared for the future of logistics and supply chain management in Rwanda, the region, and beyond,” said Dr Kwena. This initiative is implemented within the framework of the University’s MoU with the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST), aimed at enhancing the integration of applied research, innovation, and industry partnerships in Rwanda. The workshop aligns with multiple strategic priorities: Vision 2050: High-quality, skills-based education for economic transformation NST1: Employable youth and private sector-led development Agenda 2063: A skills revolution underpinned by science, technology, and innovation SDGs: Quality Education (Goal 4), Decent Work (Goal 8), Industry, Innovation (Goal 9), and Partnerships for the Goals (Goal 17) The University of Kigali continues to position itself as a regional leader in applied logistics education and workforce development.
