The accreditation, awarded to institutions meeting rigorous requirements, signifies RIIO's professionalism and the high quality of its ophthalmology curriculum.
Minister of Education, Nsengimana Joseph, commended the institute for its dedication to ophthalmology education.
Speaking at a celebration marking this achievement on February 15, 2025, Minister Nsengimana stated that RIIO's success reflects Rwanda's commitment to advancing healthcare and quality education. He praised RIIO's focus on expertise and innovation in ophthalmology.
'We are proud of the remarkable progress RIIO has made, demonstrating that Rwanda has the capability to educate and provide ophthalmic services at an international level. This achievement helps us move toward self-reliance and ensures quality healthcare is accessible to all,' he said.
Professor John Nkurikiye, one of RIIO's founders and head of medical services, expressed his delight at the milestone.
'Even though RIIO was registered in 2012, we didn't start the School of Ophthalmology until 2018, as we wanted to ensure we got things right. Our trainees are certified by the College of Ophthalmology of Eastern Central and Southern Africa, but we also encourage them to sit other international exams," said Professor Nkurikiye, Co-Founder and Medical Director at RIIO.
He added, 'Our Rwandan graduates are now working in Rwamagana, Musanze, Kabgayi, the Rwanda Military Hospital, and one has recently joined the University of Rwanda as faculty.'
The Ophthalmology Foundation's accreditation process evaluates curriculum, faculty qualifications, educational resources, and clinical facilities, encouraging institutions to assess and improve their practices.
'It was quite nerve-wracking when I first submitted RIIO's name for accreditation,' said Professor Cikū Mathenge, Co-Founder and RIIO Director of Training.
'We applied at the basic level, but during the self-evaluation, we realized we already met several advanced criteria. The onsite assessment verified our evaluation, and we were delighted to receive accreditation at the advanced level. The report provides tips for further improvement, which we will begin implementing immediately.'
Dr. Ndayishimiye Alexis, a student at RIIO, anticipates gaining valuable knowledge to enhance his ability to treat patients with eye conditions.
Dr. Olivier Uwizeye, an ophthalmologist at Kibagabaga Hospital, noted that without RIIO training, one might lack essential skills, including proficiency in using advanced medical equipment.
Since beginning training in 2018, RIIO has educated 26 doctors from five countries. Ten have completed their studies and are now providing ophthalmic care in various medical facilities in Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Sixteen students from Rwanda, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Bahamas are currently enrolled.
RIIO boasts both local and international faculty and offers training at Kibagabaga Community Eye Hospital and RIIO iHospital.
According to a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report, 2.2 billion people worldwide suffer from visual impairment, and one billion of these cases could have been prevented or treated.
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