The 43 beneficiaries will study at various Brazilian universities, where they are expected to strengthen their expertise and later contribute to Rwanda’s development priorities through knowledge and skills transfer.

On July 2, the Higher Education Council (HEC), through its Director of the Bursary, Loan and Fund Management Unit, Désiré Gacinya, took part in a pre-departure orientation session for the scholars.

The briefing equipped the students with guidance on academic expectations, cultural adjustment, financial management, and settling into life in Brazil ahead of their studies.

Brazil’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Irene Vida Gala, said the cohort represents a milestone in bilateral academic relations, noting that they will play a key role in strengthening cooperation between institutions in both countries.

“When I arrived here not too long ago, my main concern was to build stronger connections between universities in Brazil and Rwanda, as well as with the Higher Education Council. I believe we have made significant progress within one year,” she said.

She expressed confidence that the students will return with valuable expertise, research networks, and partnerships that could benefit both Rwanda and Brazil.

Ambassador Vida Gala also highlighted ongoing efforts to deepen university-to-university collaboration, saying progress had been made since her arrival in Kigali in late 2025.

The scholarship beneficiaries said they are eager to take up the opportunity and contribute to Rwanda’s development upon completion of their studies.