Rwanda Polytechnic (RP) is set to introduce aircraft maintenance programmes in September 2027 as Rwanda prepares to develop local expertise to support its growing aviation industry.
RP Director General Dr Sylvie Mucyo announced the plan on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, while speaking to journalists visiting the institution.
She said the institution would initially recruit qualified instructors from abroad to deliver the training while preparing Rwandan professionals to eventually take over teaching responsibilities.
“We are introducing new programmes for which we currently do not have many Rwandans with the required qualifications. We will initially bring in experts from outside the country to teach, while also preparing Rwandans who will later join the teaching team,” she said.
The aircraft maintenance programme will complement courses in aircraft and airport management introduced at Rwanda Polytechnic in March 2026.
The development comes as Rwanda prepares for the completion of Bugesera International Airport, which is expected to increase demand for skilled aviation professionals.
In 2025, Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana said the government was considering introducing training programmes in aircraft piloting and maintenance to ensure enough qualified personnel would be available to support operations at the new airport.
He made the remarks on February 18, 2025, while addressing senators on the Senate Committee on Social Affairs and Human Rights.
Nsengimana highlighted ongoing efforts to update technical and vocational education and training (TVET) curricula to reflect changing industry needs and align with Rwanda’s Vision 2050.
He said the government was considering introducing an Advanced Diploma (A1) in aircraft maintenance, noting that Bugesera International Airport would attract numerous aircraft, creating demand for trained maintenance personnel.
The planned programme is expected to contribute to building Rwanda’s local technical capacity and preparing a skilled workforce for the country’s expanding aviation sector.
