Rwanda is set to begin offering university-level education in Artificial Intelligence (AI) following the Cabinet’s approval of the establishment of the Rwanda Institute of Computing (RIC), a new institution aimed at preparing and equipping the country’s future technology leaders.
The institute will officially open in September 2026 as a specialized college under the University of Rwanda, offering undergraduate programs focused on Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.
The decision was announced as part of a broader strategy adopted by the Cabinet, which includes the creation of the Rwanda Institute of Computing (RIC).
Building on the Success of Rwanda Coding Academy
According to a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister, the new institute builds on the achievements of the Rwanda Coding Academy and will provide students with a seamless pathway to advanced higher education in computer science and related technologies.
The statement noted: “This initiative will further strengthen Rwanda’s capacity to develop highly skilled professionals who will drive the country’s technology-based economy.”
National AI Strategy Continues to Expand
Rwanda is among the African countries that have adopted a national AI policy. On June 8, 2026, the Cabinet also established the National Artificial Intelligence Office, tasked with accelerating innovation, supporting investment, promoting AI adoption, and strengthening governance in the sector.
Artificial intelligence is already being applied across various sectors in Rwanda, including healthcare, education, justice, agriculture, business, security, and many other areas of national development.
Government Targets Nationwide Digital Literacy by 2029
The country has made knowledge and technology-driven development a national priority. Under its current five-year National Strategy for Transformation, Rwanda aims for all citizens to possess basic digital skills by 2029, while one million people are expected to receive training in coding.
Government data shows that by the end of 2024, more than 60% of Rwandans had acquired basic digital literacy.
Mobile phone ownership also increased significantly, with 85% of households owning mobile phones in 2024, up from 67% in 2017.
By 2029, Rwanda aims to ensure that all citizens are digitally literate and able to access both public and private services remotely through digital technologies.
