The planned establishment of a Kent State University campus in Rwanda is expected to provide local access to specialised programmes in fashion design and merchandising, two important fields that have traditionally required students to study abroad. The development was announced during a symposium held in Kigali on June 19, where officials said the institution is undergoing accreditation processes in both Rwanda and the United States. Industry players say the initiative will help address a long-standing gap in fashion education while supporting the growth of Rwanda’s creative economy. ALSO READ: How having a fashion school in Rwanda will impact the industry Sandrine Mucyo, the founder and organiser of The Stage Fashion Showcase, one of Rwanda’s leading fashion events, told The New Times that the initiative could become a major catalyst for talent development in the country’s creative sector. “I believe this is a very promising development for Rwanda’s creative sector. Many young creatives have had to look abroad to access specialised fashion education, which can be financially and logistically challenging,” Mucyo said. She added that offering internationally affiliated programmes in Rwanda would enable aspiring designers, merchandisers, and brand builders to gain industry-relevant skills while staying connected to the local market and culture. Mucyo also noted that while talent is abundant, education plays a critical role in professionalising the industry. She said the university could expose students to global standards, innovation, and best practices while encouraging entrepreneurship. “This could help raise the quality and competitiveness of Rwandan fashion brands and equip creatives with the knowledge needed to build sustainable businesses and position themselves in regional and international markets,” she said. She further emphasised that the long-term success of the initiative will depend on effective implementation and how well the programmes respond to industry needs. For Emmanuel Keza Niyonsenga, award-winning designer and founder of Kezem Rwanda, the university could help bridge the gap between natural talent and professional training. He said many people possess creative ability but require academic guidance and structured learning to fully develop their craft. Niyonsenga added that access to recognised qualifications could open doors for Rwandan creatives to participate in international competitions, expand their professional networks, and gain greater credibility within the industry. He also noted that the presence of a reputable fashion institution could encourage more families to support young people pursuing careers in fashion. “There are young people who want to study fashion, but sometimes parents hesitate because they prefer more traditional academic paths. Having a university offering such programmes can help change perceptions,” he said. Niyonsenga added that a growing pool of trained designers would likely increase competition in the industry, ultimately improving quality and creating more opportunities across the fashion value chain. Fashion model and creative entrepreneur Franco Kabano described the development as a transformative milestone for Rwanda’s creative economy. “For many years, talented young creatives seeking specialised education in fashion design, merchandising, and brand management have had to study abroad, which was costly and inaccessible for many,” he said. Kabano said bringing world-class fashion education closer to home will strengthen Rwanda’s fashion ecosystem by producing skilled professionals who understand both global standards and local market realities. He added that the institution will go beyond training designers, with the potential to create sustainable careers, generate employment, and support the growth of competitive Rwandan fashion brands. “As someone who has worked in the fashion and modelling industry, I see this as an investment not only in individual careers but also in the future of Rwanda’s creative economy,” he said. Beyond classroom learning, Kabano expects the university to build valuable networks connecting students with industry professionals and international partners, opening opportunities for mentorship, internships, and collaboration. He also views the institution as a step toward professionalising a sector that has largely relied on talent, passion, and self-learning. “Global competitiveness today requires structured education, research, innovation, and business expertise,” he said. “The true value lies in creating an ecosystem where creativity meets professionalism.” The campus is expected to begin operations once accreditation processes in Rwanda and the United States are completed
