Since its launch just over a year ago, the AUCA Software Innovation Center has become a hub for hands-on learning, innovation, and industry collaboration. The initiative bridges the gap between classroom education and real-world tech challenges, preparing students for meaningful careers in the digital economy by equipping them with the skills, confidence, and mindset they need.
'The AUCA Innovation Center has always been part of our long-term dream to integrate technology and innovation into the core of our academic mission,' said Assoc. Prof. Eustace Penniecook, Vice Chancellor of AUCA.
'Today, we are proud to see that dream become realityâ€"and even more proud to see how this initiative aligns with Rwanda's Vision 2050 to build a knowledge-based, digital economy.'
The Center is closely aligned with national priorities, including Rwanda's Vision 2050 and the National Digital Talent Policy, by focusing on digital inclusion, innovation, and youth employment.
'This is more than academic innovationâ€"it's a strategic response to Rwanda's development priorities,' said Assoc. Prof. Theogene Niyonzima, Academic Vice Chancellor. 'We are preparing digital talent that the country and continent need.'
Students are trained in high-demand areas such as cybersecurity, mobile programming, cloud computing, data science, and UI/UX design. These practical skills are essential for thriving in a global digital economy.
Commenting on the skills gained, Diane Habimana Ishimwe, a software engineering student, said: 'The hands-on courses in cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and data science built my confidence. I later secured an internship at RISA, where I gained real-world experience in Rwanda's tech ecosystem.'
The Innovation Center's impact is also driven by strong partnerships. A collaboration with AmaliTech, launched in September 2024, is providing mentorship and internship opportunities to help students transition into the workforce.
Additionally, a memorandum of understanding signed with Irembo in October 2024 allows students to engage in live public service tech projects, while a recent agreement with German Test Solution brings global engineering training standards to AUCA.
The program is also a force for inclusion. With more than 60% female participation, it is helping break gender barriers and inspire more young women to enter the tech space. Students have also gained international exposure through platforms like the Global AI Summit in Africa.
Grace Ishimwe Umwiza, a health cluster innovator, built a maternal and child health monitoring system through the program and now sees herself as a digital health advocate.
Final-year student Hope Wilberforce Tuyishime credited the Mastercard Foundation-supported training with fast-tracking his career by equipping him with web development and big data skills.
'This is about unlocking the potential of young minds to solve Africa's most pressing challenges,' said Prince Ishimwe Mukotsi, the Center's coordinator.
Through its expanding reach and deep commitment to youth-led solutions, the Center is positioning AUCA and Rwanda as a leading force in Africa's digital transformation.
IGIHE
