The Higher Education Council (HEC) says strengthening research and innovation in universities is essential to addressing labour market needs and preparing graduates to create jobs.
Dr Edward Kadozi, HEC Director General, made the remarks on Wednesday, February 18, during a consultative meeting exploring how higher learning institutions can advance research and innovation to accelerate national economic growth.
The meeting gathered officials from the Ministry of Education, university leaders, and education stakeholders.
Dr Kadozi noted significant progress in Rwanda’s higher education sector: enrolment has tripled in 20 years, from 3% to 10%, while the number of higher learning institutions has quadrupled since 2000. Between 2016 and 2024, student numbers grew 43%, and PhD holders increased from 3 in 2013 to 542 by last year.
Despite progress, nearly five million learners in primary and secondary schools mean Rwanda must continue expanding quality higher education to meet future labour market demands.
“Universities lead in research and innovation, which should also strengthen the private sector while improving education quality,” Dr Kadozi said.
He emphasized updating curricula and preparing graduates with skills aligned to labour market needs to ensure universities contribute directly to economic growth through research and innovation.
University leaders highlighted ongoing challenges, including limited research funding and a shortage of qualified researchers. Dr Kadozi called on the private sector to support research financially and to help expand the number and capacity of researchers.
Planning efforts will also focus on ensuring innovations developed in universities reach and benefit the wider industry.
