Beyond the numbers : How DST-HIRWA and SYNAPSE are advancing data science for health through people and institutions

The University of Rwanda is strengthening health research and education through two flagship initiatives—Data Science Training for Health Innovation in Rwanda (DST-HIRWA) and SYNAPSE. Implemented by the Centre of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and e-Health under the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, the projects are equipping a new generation of scientists with advanced skills in data science, research and scientific communication to address Rwanda’s evolving health challenges.

The DST-HIRWA and SYNAPSE projects are equipping a new generation of scientists with advanced skills in data science, research and scientific communication to address Rwanda’s evolving health challenges

One of the programme beneficiaries is Melissa Uwase, an Assistant Lecturer in Epidemiology, whose journey reflects the transformative impact of the initiatives on early-career academics. Joining the programme as a junior faculty member, she strengthened her expertise in analysing large datasets, applying advanced statistical methods and communicating scientific findings.

"Through the programme, I received hands-on training in data science, advanced analytics and scientific communication. This experience didn’t just build my confidence ; it completely changed how I approach research and teaching," she says.

Today, Melissa applies these skills in teaching advanced epidemiological methods, mentoring Master’s students and guiding research projects from proposal development to publication. For her, the greatest achievement is being able to transfer this knowledge to future public health professionals.

Melissa, an Assistant Lecturer in Epidemiology, acknowledges that the projects have strengthened her capacity in analysing large datasets, applying advanced statistical methods and effectively communicating scientific findings

"What I value most is that I’m now able to pass on this knowledge to my students, helping to prepare the next generation of public health professionals," she adds.

According to Professor Abraham Haileamlak Mitike, Principal of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, the projects have significantly strengthened postgraduate education, research capacity and academic excellence at the University.

"The DST-HIRWA and SYNAPSE projects have made a significant contribution to strengthening postgraduate education, research capacity and overall academic excellence at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences," he says.

The initiatives have supported Master’s and PhD students, postdoctoral fellows and faculty members through advanced training, mentorship and access to modern research infrastructure. They have also enhanced scientific publication, grant writing, curriculum development and international collaboration, increasing the University’s research competitiveness and global visibility.

Principal Prof. Abraham highlights that the capacity built through the two projects is strengthening evidence-based policy, fostering innovation and contributing to improved health outcomes in Rwanda and beyond

Professor Mitike notes that the benefits extend beyond academia.

"By strengthening our institutional capacity, we are better positioned to contribute to evidence-based policy, support innovation, and ultimately improve health outcomes for communities in Rwanda and beyond," he says.

Funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), the initiatives bring together the University of Rwanda, Washington University in St. Louis and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Rwanda. Together, they are building a sustainable, locally led ecosystem for health research and innovation while preparing the next generation of scientists to improve lives through data-driven solutions.