Kagame hails Rwanda-Oklahoma varsity partnership for shaping leaders

President Paul Kagame has hailed the Rwanda-Oklahoma Christian University partnership as a 20-year success story that has contributed to Rwanda’s leadership development.

He said this on Saturday, May 23, during the 20th anniversary celebrations of Oklahoma Christian University’s partnership with Rwanda. The event brought together alumni, partners, guests, and other dignitaries.

President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame, who also attended the event, are honourary alumni of Oklahoma Christian University.

“In 2006, the first 10 Rwandan students went to study at Oklahoma Christian University through the Presidential Scholars Program. Two decades later, there are more than 700 alumni who serve in strategic leadership positions, including senior government officials and executives in the private sector,” Kagame said.

He added that the growth of the programme reflects the strength of sustained international education cooperation and its role in building national capacity.

“To the alumni community present tonight, keep on representing us well. If you ever need anything, do not shy away from asking. We are here for you," he noted.

“Don’t forget that you still have a responsibility to mentor those that come after you. After all, the global network must be a national platform for opportunity creation,” he added.

The president also thanked sponsors and partners for their role in sustaining the programme over two decades, noting that the collaboration has contributed to expanding access to higher education for Rwandan students.

Kagame said the partnership has helped strengthen Rwanda’s position as a growing hub for higher education and innovation, with more world-class institutions now operating in the country.

“One of the most important legacies of this partnership is that Rwanda is now home to several world-class institutions. This aligns with our country’s vision of becoming a regional hub for innovation."

He stressed that education must be translated into practical skills to drive long-term economic growth.

The Chancellor of Oklahoma Christian University, John deSteiguer, said the partnership has evolved into a broader education platform, expanding academic programmes and increasing student enrolment over the years.

Ivan Mbaraga, a 2016 alumnus and Executive Director of Oklahoma Christian University Rwanda, said the programme has produced graduates now serving across different sectors, including government and business.

“True impact is never measured by titles, but it is measured in the lives of everyone—in leadership, in science, in excellence, in pursuit of creativity, in people who carry knowledge with courage.”

Mbaraga said the partnership represents a shared responsibility to continue building future generations.