The University of Rwanda received a delegation from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University led by its Council Chairman, Dr. LAM Tai-fai. The delegation also included Professor Jin-Guang TENG, President, and Professor Ben YOUNG, Vice President both of the HKPU. They visited UR to forge a partnership in various areas of mutual benefit.
Together with other UR officials led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayihura Muganaga Didas, they explored areas of research and academic collaboration such as engineering, architecture, construction, fashion and textile, and more.
One of the primary goals of the discussions was the establishment of dual degree programs for both Master’s and PhD students. According to Prof Kayihura, these programs will allow students to gain advanced knowledge and credentials from both UR and HKPU, fostering a more comprehensive and global educational experience.
HKPU brings a wealth of research expertise, particularly in terms of impact and funding, which has been developed over many years. UR aims to tap into this knowledge to bolster its own research capabilities. The collaboration will enable UR to adopt best practices in securing research funding and enhancing the societal impact of its research projects.
Recognizing the significant role of research in driving industrial innovation, UR expressed the need to enhance practical partnerships with industry. This collaboration will therefore allow UR to learn strategies harnessed by HKPU to ensure that research initiatives are aligned with industry needs, thereby maximizing their practical applications and benefits.
The meeting also emphasized the importance of knowledge transfer and entrepreneurship. UR envisions empowering and funding young student entrepreneurs, enabling them to create and sustain their own companies. This initiative aims to nurture a new generation of entrepreneurs who can contribute to economic growth and job creation.
At the end of the meeting, the two universities agreed to formalize their collaboration with an official agreement. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is renowned for its spirit of determination and for providing students with global perspectives and opportunities, in line with its vision of ’Opening Minds – Shaping the Future.’