On January 22, 2025, the Minister of State for Education, Claudette Irere, visited Kent State University (KSU) in Ohio, USA, to reinforce academic collaborations in aeronautics, engineering, and fashion design.

During her visit, the Minister met with KSU leaders to explore new opportunities for cooperation and engaged with Rwandan students currently studying at the university.

As part of the visit, the Minister of State signed a Letter of Intent to establish a Fashion Design and Merchandising School in Kigali. This initiative will introduce a four-year degree program aimed at strengthening Rwanda’s creative industry. Additionally, the partnership between KSU’s College of Aeronautics & Engineering and the University of Rwanda will expand through dual-degree programs, fostering academic mobility and knowledge exchange.

To further enhance access to quality education, the Minister also expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) securing preferential tuition rates for Rwandan students at KSU. This initiative aims to ease financial barriers for both government-sponsored and private students.

This collaboration aligns with Rwanda’s vision of building a knowledge-based economy by equipping students with global expertise. The Ministry remains committed to fostering international partnerships that enhance education, research, and capacity building for national development.