Kibogora Polytechnic Strengthens International Academic Partnerships at the 1st Brazil-Africa Rectors’ Forum

Kibogora Polytechnic has continued to expand its international academic footprint through active participation in the 1st Brazil-Africa Rectors’ Forum held in Brazil.

During the visit, the Vice Chancellor of Kibogora Polytechnic, Dr. Dariya Mukamusoni, was officially received by the President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, in a significant moment highlighting the growing relationship between African and Brazilian higher education institutions.

As part of the forum activities, Kibogora Polytechnic signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Universidade Federal do Rio Grande – FURG. The agreement aims to strengthen collaboration in academic programs, scientific research, innovation, student and staff mobility, and institutional capacity building between the two institutions.

The second day of the forum was characterized by thematic panel discussions, bilateral meetings, and strategic engagements focused on enhancing educational cooperation between Brazil and African countries. The event brought together university leaders, policymakers, researchers, and academic stakeholders committed to advancing international partnerships in higher education.

Rwandan institutions including University of Rwanda, Kibogora Polytechnic, University of Global Health Equity, and Rwanda Polytechnic actively participated in discussions centered on academic cooperation, research collaboration, innovation, technology transfer, and student mobility.

The forum provided an important platform for fostering long-term partnerships between African and Brazilian universities while promoting knowledge exchange and collaborative research initiatives that address global and regional development challenges.

Today in Brazil, six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with the following higher education institutions:

1. Federal University of Agreste of Pernambuco (UFAPE)

2. Centro Universitário das Faculdades Associadas de Ensino (UNIFAE)

3. Federal University of Paraíba (UFPB)

4. Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ)

5. Federal University of Southern and Southeastern Pará (UNIFESSPA)

6. Federal University of Rio Grande (FURG)

These agreements were established considering the mutual interest in strengthening and developing international cooperation through academic, scientific, and cultural collaboration. The partnerships will promote joint programs and projects of mutual interest in the areas of teaching, research, innovation, community outreach, staff and student mobility, and institutional development.

The signing of these MoUs marks an important step toward expanding international partnerships and fostering collaboration between Brazilian and African higher education institutions.

Through its engagement in the forum and the establishment of new partnerships, Kibogora Polytechnic reaffirmed its commitment to internationalization and academic excellence. The institution continues to position itself as an active contributor to higher education development, research advancement, and innovation both in Rwanda and internationally.