The University of Rwanda’s School of Science and Technology is set to introduce a Bachelor of Science program in Nuclear Science and Technology. This initiative aims to support Rwanda’s strategy to utilize nuclear energy for socio-economic development.
University officials emphasize that the program will help build a skilled workforce essential for advancing the nuclear sector in Rwanda. Prof. Ignace Gatare, Principal of the College of Science and Technology, noted that the curriculum will provide students with foundational knowledge and skills relevant to the field.
Rwanda plans to establish a nuclear research center in collaboration with Russia, focused on peaceful applications of nuclear technology. This includes producing radioisotopes for cancer diagnosis and treatment, using radiation to enhance agricultural crops, and non-destructive testing in various industries.
The program has been developed with input from both internal and external partners and has completed validation procedures at the university level. It is now awaiting accreditation from the Higher Education Council (HEC). While no specific launch date has been announced, university officials hope to start the program “as soon as possible.”
The four-year program will begin with general sciences like physics and mathematics, transitioning to more specialized courses in later stages. Rwanda envisions nuclear energy playing a crucial role in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, electricity generation, and mining.
Additionally, Rwanda plans to develop a nuclear power plant using small modular reactor (SMR) technology, which is seen as a sustainable solution to meet the country’s growing energy needs while reducing carbon emissions. According to Fidèle Ndahayo, CEO of the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board, nuclear power is essential to address Rwanda’s energy demands, which currently exceed available sources.
With total energy capacity estimated at 650-700 MW, Rwanda’s Vision 2050 targets a capacity increase to between 2.5 and 4.5 GW. The introduction of nuclear energy is crucial for achieving these ambitious goals.
