The Minister of Education Jean Nsengimana, participated in the Times Higher Education (THE) Africa Universities Summit 2025, held in Kigali. The event brought together over 300 leaders from higher education, industry, policy, and civil society to discuss the key challenges and opportunities shaping African higher education and society.

In his address, Minister Nsengimana underscored the vital role of education in Africa’s sustainable development.
“This summit serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education—not merely as an academic endeavor, but as the foundation of Africa’s sustainable development. The universities we represent are more than institutions of learning; they are engines of innovation, resilience, and economic growth,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for bold reforms, innovative solutions, and a shared commitment to reimagining the role of African universities in shaping the continent’s future.

“The future of African higher education will not be shaped by business as usual. It requires bold reforms, innovative solutions, and a shared commitment to transformation. Let us use this summit as an opportunity to reimagine the role of universities in Africa’s development, embrace digital transformation while prioritizing inclusivity, and foster research and innovation that directly contribute to economic and societal progress.”

The summit provides a crucial platform for dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders in African higher education. Discussions focus on strategies to enhance research output, strengthen university-industry linkages, and ensure that higher education institutions are equipped to drive socio-economic transformation across the continent.
 

The Ministry of Education remains committed to fostering a higher education ecosystem that is inclusive, innovative, and aligned with national and continental development goals. Through initiatives like this summit, Rwanda continues to position itself as a leader in shaping the future of African higher education.