From Butaro to Kigali: reflections from our MSc study tour in Rwanda

Our recent MSc Global Study Tour to Rwanda was a powerful and reflective week of learning, system engagement, and cultural understanding.

Our visit coincided with the start of Kwibuka, Rwanda’s annual period of remembrance marking the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Beginning the week in this context set a profound tone, reminding us of the importance of memory, resilience, and the role that strong, equitable systems play in rebuilding societies.

We had the opportunity to spend time at University of Global Health Equity in Butaro, a pioneering institution redefining how health professionals are trained, with a strong focus on equity, community, and systems thinking. Our visit to Butaro Hospital further brought this to life, demonstrating how high-quality care can be delivered in rural settings while directly improving outcomes for local communities. 

In Kigali, we visited IRCAD Africa, a leading centre for advanced surgical training and medical simulation, strengthening surgical capacity across the continent through world-class education and technology.

We were also grateful for the opportunity to visit Zipline in Muhanga, where students saw first-hand how autonomous delivery networks are transforming access to blood, vaccines, and essential medicines, particularly in remote areas. 

Our visit also highlighted Rwanda’s growing innovation ecosystem, including organisations such as UVU Bio and timbuktoo Africa, both contributing to strengthening Africa’s life sciences sector and supporting the next generation of health and technology entrepreneurs. 

We were honoured to be hosted by the British High Commission Kigali, where we met with senior representatives working across development and health. These conversations reinforced the importance of partnerships between academia, government, and industry in building resilient and equitable health systems.

Thank you to our students for their curiosity and engagement throughout the week, and to all our hosts and partners in Rwanda for their generosity and openness.