Strengthening Scientific and Cultural Ties: A Collaborative Journey in Rwanda
The Rheinische Hochschule Köln (RH) has maintained a close and productive partnership with the Institute of Applied Sciences (INES) in Ruhengeri, Rwanda, for many years. This collaboration, initiated in 2018, has resulted in numerous successful projects and academic exchange programs. Our shared goal is not only to advance scientific knowledge but also to strengthen the cultural ties between the two institutions. In 2024, this fruitful partnership continued, as we visited Rwanda from July 19th to July 29th to support educational initiatives and work on pioneering research projects aimed at addressing critical healthcare challenges in Africa.
The focus of our visit was multifaceted. On the academic front, our professors, including Prof. Dr. Ansgar Pommer, delivered lectures on biochemistry and biometrics—subjects that consistently engage the students at INES. Simultaneously, we concentrated on an innovative and life-saving project: the development of a PCR diagnostic kit for the early detection of neonatal sepsis, a condition that poses a significant threat to newborns in many African countries.
This project represents more than a scientific endeavor—it is a humanitarian mission aimed at drastically reducing the infant mortality rate. The rapid diagnostic capabilities of the PCR kit could significantly improve the timeliness of medical interventions, ultimately saving countless lives. Additionally, we explored the use of local honey as an environmentally friendly alternative to formalin, reflecting Rwanda's strong innovative spirit and the potential of its natural resources in contributing to global scientific advancements.
Our arrival in Rwanda was marked by both challenges and warm hospitality. Though our luggage was delayed, our spirits remained high, buoyed by the heartfelt welcome we received from our students, Bruno Niyonkuru Rugira, Tuyrshime Jean de Dieu, and Louise Addax Obeïssante, at Kigali airport. The drive from Kigali to Ruhengeri, despite taking place at night, was filled with lively discussions about past experiences and future expectations. This set the tone for the days ahead, which promised to be rich in intercultural and scientific exchange.
The initial days were dedicated to preparations for our lectures and workshops. Our team worked closely with Tuyrshime Jean de Dieu, head of the laboratory, and Bruno Niyonkuru Rugira, a dedicated bachelor’s student, to finalize the content of our biochemistry and biometrics courses. In one particularly innovative session, students used HARIBO sweets to recreate the structure of DNA, providing a hands-on approach to learning complex biological concepts. Our biometrics lecture, focused on descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing, provided students with practical tools for their research projects. The positive feedback from the students was overwhelming, with many expressing interest in continuing their studies in biostatistics at the master’s and PhD levels.
One of the highlights of our visit was the progress made in our joint research projects. At a dinner with Vice-Chancellor Jean Bosco BARIBESHYA and our dedicated students, we discussed the current status and next steps for the "Amplifying Hope" project. This ambitious initiative aims to develop PCR diagnostic kits to quickly and accurately identify the bacteria responsible for neonatal sepsis. The project’s scientific objectives include the lyophilization of the kits to enhance their usability, validation in Rwandan hospitals, and eventual commercial development. Although significant progress has been made, we continue to seek funding to ensure the successful completion of this life-saving initiative.
Another remarkable research project, led by Bruno Niyonkuru Rugira, explores the use of local honey as a sustainable alternative to formalin for the preservation of biological samples. This environmentally friendly approach, which builds on the antibacterial and preservative properties of honey, holds great promise for reducing the reliance on harmful chemicals in scientific and medical applications.
Beyond the scientific and academic aspects of our visit, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in Rwandan culture. One memorable experience was attending an international concert featuring both local choirs and a choir from California, with one of our students, Jules Baweshema, conducting one of the local ensembles. This event left a lasting impression on us, further deepening the emotional connection we felt with our Rwandan colleagues and students.
In addition, we participated in a traditional Rwandan cooking event, where we learned to prepare "Isombe," a dish made from cassava leaves. The preparation of this dish, which involves the careful removal of natural toxins through extensive washing and cooking, was not only a culinary experience but also a cultural lesson, highlighting the richness of Rwandan traditions.
Our time in Rwanda was profoundly impactful, both professionally and personally. The warm reception we received and the meaningful collaborations we engaged in reinforced our commitment to expanding this partnership. The projects we are advancing, such as the development of the PCR kit for neonatal sepsis diagnosis and the exploration of honey as a preservative, have the potential to make a lasting difference in the lives of many people.
This visit reminded us of the immense value of intercultural exchange and collaboration. We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our Rwandan colleagues and look forward to continuing this partnership in the years to come. Rwanda has left an indelible mark on us, and we are eager to return, to build on the progress we have made, and to further deepen the connections between our institutions.
Thank you, INES—we will be back!
