News

On March 20, 2025, the University of Rwanda’s College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine (UR-CAVM) hosted an event at UR, Busogo campus in the Main Auditorium to celebrate the International Women’s Day. The theme of the day was "Women in Innovation : Shaping Tomorrow."

Mrs KAYITESI Juliette, who was representing the Principal, UR-CAVM in her opening speech, she emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment, stating, "Today, as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women, we must ensure equal opportunities for all. Let’s champion inclusivity, innovation, and gender equality in education and beyond. Together, we build a brighter future of the world. Happy International Women’s Day !" Said Kayitesi.
Following this, a documentary presentation by UMUHIRE AKALIZA Innocente, the UR-CAVM Minister of Gender and Protocol. The documentary highlighted the activities within the Girl’s Room at UR-CAVM, where young women learn essential skills such as cooking, cleaning, home management, childcare, joining cooperatives, creativity, and innovation to prepare for a successful future.

A panel discussion followed, moderated by Akaliza Umuhire Innocente with four panelists including MUGABEKAZI Dorothee, warden, NYIRAMUTIGIRWA Clarisse and ABERA Shouder, both UR-CAVM students and NIRERE Aimee, Busogo CNF Secretary. The discussion focused on women in innovation, challenges they face, and solutions to support their journey, with recommendations such as joining cooperatives, initiating projects, and attending training programs.

BANKUNDIYE Borah, a student Mastercard Foundation representative, spoke on the impact of Mastercard in empowering women through education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship. This was followed by Dr. Margueritte MUKANGANGO, UR-CAVM lecturer who emphasized how empowerment helps women to overcome challenges and achieve their goals through innovation and creativity.
A short film on women’s roles in traditional versus modern Rwandan society was showcased, illustrating the progress toward gender equality. Finally, Assoc. Prof. Anne Marie Kagwesage, Program Coordinator of the Mastercard Foundation at UR, stressed that women’s empowerment is driven by education, economic opportunities, leadership, and mentorship.

The event was a great success, fostering awareness and inspiring women to embrace innovation and leadership for a brighter future.

Jacqueline UMUPFASONI
Thursday, March 20, 2025