Spiro and Mount Kigali University (MKU) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Friday, August 22, to strengthen ties and collaboration in research and development, employment and internship opportunities, and the development of an industry-relevant academic curriculum. The signing ceremony, held at MKU's campus, was attended by university leadership, faculty, students, and executives from Spiro Rwanda, underscoring the beginning of a multidisciplinary alliance. ALSO READ: Spiro boosts production to meet demand as Rwanda EV legislation takes effect The objectives of the MoU emphasise the commitment of both institutions to fostering collaboration in areas of sustainable mobility, research and development, capacity-building, and clean energy adoption. Under the agreement, MKU students and staff will benefit from discounted rates on Spiro electric motorcycles, along with flexible payment terms. The partnership also paves way for collaborative research initiatives, employment, and internship placements. Spiro Rwanda is the major electric two-wheeler vehicle company in Africa, and the leading distributor of locally assembled EV motorcycles in Rwanda. To mark the beginning of the partnership, Spiro Rwanda handed over five brand-new electric motorcycles to MKU, symbolising the initial effect of the partnership. “This MoU is a strategic partnership with Mount Kigali University to deepen both technical and commercial innovations. This will work towards developing sustainable goals, especially transforming the transportation sector in Rwanda and contributing to the fight against climate change through electric mobility solutions,” said Kaushik Burman, Chief Executive Officer of Spiro Rwanda. “For Spiro Rwanda, as a leading mobility player, it is crucial to partner with academia to leverage the knowledge of students, both interns and graduates, as well as integrating them in the corporate world.” Spiro Rwanda, which currently has enrolled over 8,000 electric motorcycles and manages over 300 charging stations nationwide, is investing heavily in infrastructure and manufacturing as it scales its operations. With a workforce of over 500 and 25 districts covered nationally, the company is at the forefront of Rwanda’s green transport revolution. ALSO READ: Spiro rolls out e-bikes for sustainable, eco-friendly transport in Kirehe District Burman noted that the partnership marks the beginning of knowledge exchange and a contribution to the development of industry-relevant academic programmes. “On this historic occasion, we are signing this MoU with a clear line of sight. We are going to partner deeply with students and staff in building the Spiro ecosystem in Rwanda,” he added. Dr Martin Kimemia, MKU Vice Chancellor, described the MoU as ‘the biggest partnership of the year,’ noting that it is a foundation of a long-lasting collaborative future. He noted that the partnership will strengthen their mission in research and innovation. Kimemia noted that MKU’s faculties, especially in business and ICT, will actively engage in applied research, working alongside Spiro’s research and development teams to develop market-ready technologies and business models. “We have partnered with their research and development department, where we shall be doing action research and applied research, ensuring that their business succeeds and satisfies the market,” he added. He noted that as part of the agreement, Spiro Rwanda will have access to MKU’s laboratory and campus space for testing and performance validation of Spiro’s products. This aims to give students hands-on field experience and practice, as well as ensure a collaborative development of quality standards and evaluation metrics. Students praised the partnership, saying it will allow them not only an opportunity to get discounts but also a chance to learn, integrate into the industry, and participate in the economic transformation of the country. Christian Ibishimishije, a fourth-year Information and Technology major, welcomed the partnership, noting that it might be a solution to the struggle of securing academic and professional internships, as well as jobs. “This is a game-changer. Internships and job placements have been a challenge, but now we have a real opportunity to apply our skills, gain experience, and even contribute to environmental sustainability through electric mobility,” Ibishimishije said.
