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These experiences are not only personal growth opportunities but are also aimed at contributing to the country’s development across various sectors.

One such group of students is studying at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Morocco, a prestigious institution that is quickly becoming a beacon for academic excellence.

Located in Benguerir, in Marrakesh-Safi region, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University is one of Morocco’s leading institutions. Ranked 400th globally and 4th in Africa, the university has set ambitious goals.

By the next academic year, it is projected to be Africa’s top university, with plans to enter the top 100 universities globally by 2100.

Currently, the university hosts 30 Rwandan students, both male and female, who are enrolled in diverse fields such as construction, medicine, art, hospitality, business management, agriculture, and water management.

Speaking to IGIHE, Alanda Kamana, a Ph.D. candidate in construction, shared his insights on the educational advancements in Morocco.

According to him, every one of Morocco’s 12 administrative regions has its own public university, with several private universities complementing the state-run institutions to enhance the quality of education.

“This university was created with a focus on agricultural research, but it has expanded to include several other disciplines such as health sciences, hospitality, and more,” Kamana explained.

Founded in 2017, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University has a vision to be the leading educational institution in Africa by 2030. By 2100, it aspires to be ranked among the top 100 universities in the world.

Despite the perceived educational gap between Rwanda and Morocco, Kamana believes the difference is not as wide as many think, seeing it as an opportunity for further knowledge exchange between the two countries.

“We encourage both Rwandans and Moroccans to share their knowledge so we can advance together,” he added.

Aimee Mutuyimana, a final-year Ph.D. student specializing in water purification, highlighted the university’s excellent resources, including state-of-the-art laboratories and expert faculty.

She is confident that the knowledge gained will be invaluable to Rwanda upon her return.

'The well-being and academic support here are top-notch, and I am excited to bring back everything I have learned to contribute to Rwanda’s progress,' Mutuyimana said.

Similarly, Nicole Niyonsaba, a third-year medical student in a six-year program, noted that the academic environment at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University has allowed her to thrive.

“We have access to everything we need to succeed,” she shared. “The professors provide guidance, and we also engage in extra-curricular activities that enhance our research and personal growth.”

Niyonsaba expressed gratitude for the opportunities, as the comprehensive support they receive strengthens their education.

Hortance Bizimana, studying business management, shared how international students are well-supported in their academic journey.

As part of the curriculum, students are offered internships abroad, and some have already completed placements in Hong Kong and Dubai.

“We are in our second year, and the exposure we’re receiving is invaluable,” Bizimana stated. “We’re committed to using what we’ve learned here to develop our home country.”

Eric Rukenesha, a master’s student specializing in agricultural development, explained that their curriculum is focused on Africa’s agricultural needs.

He noted that although agriculture is the backbone of Africa’s economy, there are significant challenges, such as poor post-harvest handling and market access.

“During my break, I spent two months working with farmers in Rwanda to address these issues, particularly in preserving crops and reducing wastage, which is a major concern,” Rukenesha shared.

Alice Joy Ineza, studying architecture, emphasized the rigor of her program, which requires creativity, critical thinking and hard work.

“These skills will be essential for Rwanda’s urban development,” she said. “I believe that when we return, we will help build modern cities that prioritize sustainability and environmental conservation.”

Nasla Ingabire, who recently completed her master’s degree in International Business Management, spoke about the importance of gaining international experience.

“I aim to seek job opportunities in Morocco and then return to Rwanda to share the knowledge I have gained,” she expressed.

These students have also encouraged their peers to consider applying to Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, emphasizing that the university offers a unique opportunity to gain international experience and knowledge.

The university, unlike most in Morocco, offers programs in English, making it accessible to a broader range of international students.

Moreover, students are eligible for fully-funded scholarships, either from their home countries or through philanthropic organizations such as the Mastercard Foundation.

Recently, these students learned about additional funding opportunities from the Mastercard Foundation, further incentivizing Rwandans to pursue higher education at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University.

Rwandan students at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Morocco shared stories of ambition and opportunity.

Eric Rukenesha, a master’s student specializing in agricultural development, explained that their curriculum is focused on Africa’s agricultural needs.

Nicole Niyonsaba, a third-year medical student in a six-year program, noted that the academic environment at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University has allowed her to thrive.

Nasla Ingabire, who recently completed her master’s degree in International Business Management, spoke about the importance of gaining international experience.

Alice Joy Ineza, studying architecture, emphasized the rigor of her program, which requires creativity, critical thinking and hard work.

Hortance Bizimana, studying business management, shared how international students are well-supported in their academic journey.

Alanda Kamana, a Ph.D. candidate in construction, shared his insights on the educational advancements in Morocco.

Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

The ministry said Russian forces also launched a large-scale strike against Ukrainian military-industrial sites and energy infrastructure in retaliation for Ukraine’s attacks on civilian facilities inside Russia.

“The objectives of the strike have been fully achieved. All designated targets have been neutralized,” the ministry said.

The war in Ukraine continues, with both sides engaged in an ongoing struggle for territorial control. As the conflict approaches its fourth year, uncertainty remains over Ukraine’s ability to sustain its military efforts amid heavy personnel and equipment losses.

A policeman runs after a Russian FPV drone crashes into a vehicle in Druzhkivka, Ukraine, 18 December 2025. Russia has taken control of the settlement of Prylipka in eastern Ukraine’s Kharkiv region and Andriivka in the Dnipropetrovsk region within the last 24 hours.

Xinhua

He made the remarks at a weekly press conference in response to a question about whether recent Israeli and U.S. media reports on a possible new Israeli military action against Iran were meant to pressure Tehran into talks over its missile program.

Citing unidentified sources, NBC News reported on Saturday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would seek to persuade U.S. President Donald Trump at an upcoming meeting that Iran’s expansion of its ballistic missile program poses a threat that could require swift action.

Iran’s defense capabilities, Baghaei stressed, were designed to deter potential aggressors and were in no way negotiable or subject to bargaining.

He added that the recent media focus on Iran’s missile program was part of the “hybrid warfare” waged against Iran by Israel, with the assistance of the United States and hostile media outlets.

On June 13, Israel launched major surprise airstrikes on multiple locations in Iran, including nuclear and military sites, killing senior commanders, nuclear scientists and civilians. On June 22, U.S. forces bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities in Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan.

Iran exhibits its missiles, rockets and air defence systems in Tehran on November 12, 2025. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on Monday Iran’s missile program has been developed to defend the country’s sovereignty and is “non-negotiable.”

Xinhua

The initiative, led by Prikkle Academy Rwanda, focuses on equipping educators with practical, ethical, and locally relevant skills for integrating AI into teaching.

The programme targets nursery and primary school teachers, positioning them as the first step in introducing AI into schools. By training teachers first, the organisation aims to ensure that students engage with AI in a structured and safe manner.

Fasoranti 'Fash’ Damilola, founder and lead trainer of Prikkle Academy Rwanda, said the focus on teachers rather than students allows the programme to build a strong foundation for AI-supported learning.

'Teachers are with students every day. If we train teachers to be excellent, they will raise excellent children,' he said.

He was speaking during a graduation ceremony held on Friday at Chez Les Bien-Aimés Primary School in Kigali, where a first cohort of 14 teachers received certificates for completing the training and their final projects, which included classroom-ready digital storybooks and personal websites created with AI.

The training was made possible through a partnership between Prikkle Academy Rwanda and JUST EQUIPPING, an education-focused organisation that helped link Prikkle Academy Rwanda with Chez Les Bien-Aimés Primary School. Through this collaboration, the two organisations identified the school, mobilised teachers, and created an enabling environment for practical, school-based AI training. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening teacher capacity and introducing innovative, future-ready learning approaches in Rwandan schools.

The training, titled Generative AI for Curriculum Development and Lesson Planning, was conducted over four interactive sessions. Participants learned to use AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini to generate lesson objectives, classroom activities, and examples aligned with Rwanda’s curriculum. They also adapted AI-generated content to local language, culture, and learner needs across subjects, including mathematics, sciences, and languages.

Several teachers shared their experiences during the graduation. One participant, Okwir Oscar Sam, described how the training had expanded his skills.

'Even though I joined late, I was motivated to try. Learning how to create a website using AI was a completely new experience for me, and I feel I have gained skills that I can now apply in my teaching. I encourage everyone to continue learning and exploring these tools,' he said.

Another teacher, Cubaka Fiat, said the programme had significantly improved his confidence and capabilities.

'There were many things I didn’t know before, but now I feel capable of doing much more with AI. Our coach guided us patiently step by step, even interpreting in French when needed. Receiving my certificate today shows how much I’ve learned, and I’m very thankful for this opportunity,' he said.

Ethical use of AI was a core component of the programme. Teachers were trained to critically review AI outputs, address misinformation and bias, protect student data, and ensure that AI supports learning rather than replacing professional judgement.

Uhuza Munyampenda, co-founder and headmistress of Chez Les Bien-Aimés Primary School, said the training had helped teachers make lessons more structured and engaging.

'Teachers must keep learning to prepare the next generation. This programme has given them new tools to guide students effectively,' she said.

Prikkle Academy Rwanda plans to expand the programme by partnering with more schools, offering advanced training, and reaching schools beyond Kigali, including rural areas.

'This is just the beginning. We hope to partner with more schools and organisations to bring these AI skills to as many teachers as possible,' Damilola said.

'We must adapt to where the world is heading, and training teachers is the first step in ensuring our students are equipped for the future,' he added.

Damilola noted that the programme aligns with Rwanda’s broader goal of strengthening teacher capacity and integrating digital technologies into education, while ensuring that AI is used responsibly in classrooms.

Prikkle Academy, which has its roots in Nigeria, has been operating in Rwanda since 2021. The organisation acts as a youth employment catalyst, bridging skills gaps and connecting talent to jobs through training in soft skills, technology, communication, mentorship, networking, and practical workshops. Its goal is to help individuals secure meaningful, high-impact careers and overcome barriers to employment.

The first cohort of 14 teachers at Chez Les Bien-Aimés Primary School in Kigali graduated on Friday. They received certificates for completing the training and their final projects, which included classroom-ready digital storybooks and personal websites created using AI.

The graduation featured a presentation of projects, which included classroom-ready digital storybooks and personal websites created using AI.

The initiative, led by Prikkle Academy Rwanda, focuses on equipping educators with practical, ethical, and locally relevant skills for integrating AI into teaching.

The programme targets nursery and primary school teachers, positioning them as the first step in introducing AI into schools.

The training was made possible through a partnership between Prikkle Academy Rwanda and JUST EQUIPPING, an education-focused organisation that helped link Prikkle Academy Rwanda with Chez Les Bien-Aimés Primary School.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Trump made these comments as U.S. authorities including the Coast Guard and Navy continue efforts to intercept and seize oil tankers in the Caribbean that the administration says are violating U.S. sanctions by carrying Venezuelan crude.

The Trump administration has declared a blockade on sanctioned oil tankers going into and out of Venezuela in an attempt to choke off revenue for Maduro’s government, which relies heavily on oil exports.

According to reports, U.S. forces have already seized several vessels and pursued others believed to be part of a 'shadow fleet' that tries to evade sanctions by flying false flags or hiding their ownership.

Venezuela’s government has sharply condemned U.S. actions, calling the seizures 'piracy' and violations of international law, and has said it will defend its sovereignty.

Meanwhile, the U.S. says its pressure campaign is aimed at enforcing sanctions and disrupting networks that support Maduro’s regime and illicit oil trading.

This standoff adds to rising tensions between the two countries, with impacts on regional geopolitics and global energy markets as Venezuela’s oil industry, its main source of income, comes under growing strain from U.S. enforcement efforts.

U.S. forces have already seized several vessels and pursued others believed to be part of a 'shadow fleet' that tries to evade sanctions by flying false flags or hiding their ownership.

Rania Umutoni

The Russia-targeted sanctions, first imposed in 2014, were significantly expanded after February 2022. According to the Council, the measures cover trade, finance, energy, technology, and dual-use goods, as well as industry, transport, and luxury goods, among others.

Beyond the economic sanctions, now extended until July 31, 2026, the EU also adopted additional punitive measures recently. Last week alone, the bloc approved sanctions against individuals and entities accused of supporting Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers, as well as separate sanctions targeting alleged Russian hybrid operations. It also imposed bans on an additional 41 Russian vessels allegedly linked to the shadow fleet.

Meanwhile, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine. At a summit last week, the European Council approved a 90 billion-euro (about 105.4 billion U.S.-dollar) loan package to support Ukraine’s military and economic needs over the next two years.

European Council President Antonio Costa said the EU needs to ensure that “Ukraine is in the best condition to negotiate a peace agreement.”

These moves highlight Europe’s emphasis on pressure, while also exposing anxiety about being sidelined in negotiations to end the conflict.

A U.S.-drafted peace plan for Russia and Ukraine that leaked to the media last month stoked concern in Europe and Ukraine, with critics saying it tilted heavily toward Russia and raised fears that U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration could pressure Ukraine into major concessions.

Since then, European and Ukrainian negotiators have held talks with Trump’s envoys to try to insert their own provisions into the draft, though the precise terms of the current version remain undisclosed.

On Sunday, three days of talks on the Ukraine crisis concluded, featuring separate meetings between the United States, Russia, Ukraine, and European representatives in Florida and Miami. U.S. presidential special envoy Steve Witkoff described the meetings as “productive and constructive.”

Russia, however, offered a more critical assessment. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said that Ukraine and its European partners were obstructing progress. “It’s a fact: every time our dialogue with the U.S. starts to take a positive turn, Kiev and its European curators take extraordinary emergency measures to hamper it, to deform it, to steer these efforts off track,” Ryabkov was quoted as saying by Russia’s TASS news agency.

Even so, Europe, or at least some European countries, is seeking a more direct channel to Russia rather than leaving negotiations solely in U.S. hands.

Following the EU summit in Brussels, French President Emmanuel Macron said the bloc must be prepared for dialogue with Russia if current efforts fail to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine. Macron stated that he was ready to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin again. He had a phone call with Putin in July.

Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov said Putin is willing to engage in dialogue with Macron, according to Russia’s RIA Novosti.

Welcoming the Kremlin’s response, the French presidency said, “We will decide in the coming days on the best way to proceed.” It added that any discussion with Russia would be conducted “in full transparency” with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European allies.

Xinhua

The graduation ceremony was presided over by the RDF Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General MK Mubarakh, who commended the trainees for their dedication and perseverance throughout the rigorous programme.

In his address, General Mubarakh underscored the significance of the training in fortifying national defense. He highlighted that the knowledge and skills acquired would enable the troops to effectively safeguard Rwanda’s territorial integrity and respond to evolving security threats.

He further urged the graduates to apply their training diligently in their assigned duties, emphasising that discipline remains a crucial pillar in ensuring excellence across all fields of military service.

The comprehensive training covered a range of critical subjects, including marksmanship, tactical manoeuvres, command and control, martial arts, physical fitness, and heliborne operations. These competencies are expected to enhance the RDF’s operational capabilities and readiness.

The successful completion of the training reflects Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to building a well-prepared and professional military force capable of addressing contemporary security challenges.

The graduation ceremony was presided over by the RDF Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General MK Mubarakh, who commended the trainees for their dedication and perseverance throughout the rigorous programme.

The graduates were urged to apply their training diligently in their assigned duties.

The comprehensive training covered a range of critical subjects, including marksmanship, tactical manoeuvres, command and control, martial arts, physical fitness, and heliborne operations. These competencies are expected to enhance the RDF’s operational capabilities and readiness.

IGIHE

The agreement covers a loan of 344.5 million Chinese yuan, equivalent to more than $48 million. It was signed in Kigali on August 21, 2025.

The loan will be repaid over a period of 13.5 years, with a grace period of six and a half years before repayments begin. It carries an annual interest rate of 2 per cent.

The project will be implemented in Gisagara District, Southern Province, and is aimed at strengthening agricultural productivity while enhancing resilience to climate change.

Presenting the agreement to Parliament, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Yusuf Murangwa said the project seeks to address climate-related challenges affecting agriculture.

'The objective of this project is to strengthen agricultural capacity and productivity and mitigate the effects of climate change by irrigating 2,640 hectares of land and promoting water harvesting and efficient water-use technologies in Giseke,' Murangwa said.

He added that the project would support long-term economic transformation through major infrastructure works, including the construction of an irrigation dam and associated water distribution networks.

According to the minister, the project will enable farmers to transition from rain-fed agriculture to irrigation-based farming, allowing year-round cultivation and increased yields.

'This will allow farmers to farm throughout the year, improve productivity and expand profitable agricultural practices,' he said.

During the parliamentary debate, some MPs sought clarification on aspects of the agreement. MP Bizimana Minani asked whether the partnership terms had been adequately reviewed and whether the cooperation framework with Exim Bank of China provided sufficient assurances.

MP Germaine Mukabalisa drew attention to provisions indicating that equipment and technology for the project would be procured from China where possible.

'Experience has shown that such conditions can sometimes delay projects. In some cases, the required technologies are available locally, within the region or elsewhere at a lower cost. What happens if the lender insists on procurement from China even when it is more expensive?' she asked.

MP Furaha Rubagumya also raised concerns over clauses stating that technical standards for project implementation should be equivalent to those used in China, noting that local conditions differ.

Responding to the concerns, Minister Murangwa said Rwanda’s cooperation with Exim Bank of China remains strong, citing ongoing collaboration on various projects.

He explained that procurement conditions requiring purchases from the lender’s country are standard practice for concessional loans.

'When a country receives a highly concessional loan like this one, with a six-year grace period, a two-year implementation timeframe and a low interest rate of 2 per cent, it is common for lenders to require that equipment be sourced from their country,' Murangwa said.

He added that the agreement does not impose fixed quotas on procurement from China and that Rwanda remains confident it will secure value for money.

'We are confident that the country will not overpay,' he said.

Murangwa also noted that aligning technical standards with those applied in China would ensure international-quality outcomes, adding that independent, non-Chinese inspectors would be engaged to verify compliance and quality.

The irrigation programme is expected to begin no later than 2028.

The agreement covers a loan of 344.5 million Chinese yuan, equivalent to more than $48 million. It was signed in Kigali on August 21, 2025.

Rwandan and Chinese officials during the signing ceremony. The loan will be repaid over a period of 13.5 years, with a grace period of six and a half years before repayments begin. It carries an annual interest rate of 2 per cent.

IGIHE

The recruits from the 21st intake were inducted into service following an eight-month training course at the Rwanda Police Training School in Gishari, located in Rwamagana District.

CP Robert Niyonshuti, the Commandant of Gishari Police Training School, shared that the new officers include 40 individuals assigned to the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) and 178 officers who received training at the Musanze Police Academy, where they also pursued university education in various fields.

The recruits began their training at the Gishari Police Training School on April 17, 2025.

During their training, the recruits gained essential skills and knowledge that will support them in their roles as police officers.

They were taught how to handle weapons, practice marksmanship, and maintain public safety.

Additionally, they learned about law enforcement, police-community relations, road safety, and more. They also received lectures on government programs that will assist them in their daily duties.

'I commend the trainees for their enthusiasm and dedication. The training you have completed is just the beginning. Throughout your service, you will continue to receive additional training and develop skills to effectively fulfil your duties. Wherever you serve, remember that discipline is the pillar of this profession,' said CP Niyonshuti.

Dr. Vincent Biruta, the Minister of Interior, who officiated the pass-out ceremony, expressed confidence that the skills acquired provided a strong foundation for the responsibilities of the new recruits ahead.

'Your progress reflects hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude. May this achievement inspire you to continue advancing in this noble career,' noted Dr. Biruta.

The Rwanda National Police also reported that, over the past year, the Gishari Police Training School has trained 8,529 officers and District Administration Security Support Organ (DASSO) in various courses aimed at enhancing their knowledge and professionalism in their daily roles.

A total of 1,903 new police officers including 359 women and 1,544 men, officially joined the Rwanda National Police on Monday, December 22, 2025, after completing Basic Police Course.

Best performers were awarded at the pass-out ceremony.

Dr. Vincent Biruta, the Minister of Interior, who officiated the pass-out ceremony, expressed confidence that the skills acquired provided a strong foundation for the responsibilities of the new recruits ahead.

IGIHE