News

Educationalists, development partners, policymakers, and other key stakeholders convened for the three-day International Conference on Re-shaping Education for Sustainable Development (ICRESD), organised by UR- College of Education and its partners.

Held under the theme, "Building a Sustainable Future for Education through Pedagogical Innovation, Inclusion and Resilience," the conference explored how education can better respond to contemporary challenges while preparing learners for the future.
Opening the conference, UR Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance, Françoise Kayitare Tengera, called for collective action to strengthen education systems through innovation, inclusion, and resilience.

The conference featured several panel discussions exploring the current education model and pathways for shaping the future of education

"Innovation, inclusion, and resilience are no longer optional considerations ; they are fundamental pillars for creating education systems that prepare learners to thrive in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world," she said, adding that education must remain responsive to the realities of our time.

The conference was officially opened by DVC Françoise K. Tengera, who encouraged participants to use the platform to share evidence-based insights

She also encouraged participants to use the conference as a platform for sharing evidence-based insights, strengthening partnerships, and translating research into policies and practices that improve educational outcomes in Rwanda, across Africa, and beyond.

Joining the conference virtually was Prof. Winston Wole Soboyejo, President of the State University of New York Polytechnic Institute in the United States and a member of the UR Board of Governors. He emphasized the value of project-based learning in advancing competency-based education.

"Education should focus on developing competence rather than simply awarding certificates. Future graduates must possess practical skills that enable them to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy," he said.

The Principal of the University of Rwanda College of Education, Prof. Florien Nsanganwimana, challenged participants to translate the knowledge gained and partnerships forged during ICRESD 2026 into meaningful action.

Prof. Florien Nsanganwimana, Principal of the College of Education, delivers his remarks during the conference

"The success of ICRESD 2026 will not be measured by the number of presentations delivered or papers presented, but by the positive changes we inspire in our classrooms, institutions, and communities," said Prof. Nsanganwimana.

As participants departed, they carried with them a shared conviction that building a sustainable future for education requires collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to ensuring that every learner can thrive. ICRESD 2026 reaffirmed the vital role of research, policy, and practice in shaping education systems that are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Participants from across the education ecosystem including education leaders, researchers, institutions, and key stakeholders ; convened to discuss contemporary challenges while preparing learners for the future

Story by
NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac
Public Relations Officer, University of Rwanda College of Education