UR, Somali National University partner to advance research and academic collaboration in peacebuilding

UR has signed an agreement with Somali National University to strengthen academic and research collaboration in areas critical to both countries’ development, including genocide studies, peace and conflict studies, governance, and politics.

The agreement was signed by UR’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration, Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, and the Deputy Rector of Somali National University, Dr. Fuad Mire Hassan. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Richard Niwenshuti, Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Cooperation.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Dr. Raymond Ndikumana said the collaboration reflects the University of Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening international academic partnerships while contributing to peacebuilding efforts across Africa.

"This partnership will mainly focus on research collaboration and academic exchanges, particularly through the training of staff. We will place special emphasis on genocide studies, peace and conflict studies, governance, and politics, where UR has developed considerable expertise," he said.
Dr. Ndikumana added that the Somali delegation had visited several institutions in Rwanda to learn from the country’s experience and identified the University of Rwanda as a strategic partner in advancing higher education and research.

DVC Dr. Raymond Ndikumana (right) and Dr. Fuad Mire Hassan represented respective institutions during the partnership signing ceremony

The Deputy Rector of Somali National University, Dr. Fuad Mire Hassan, expressed appreciation to the Government of Rwanda and Rwanda Cooperation for facilitating the visit and fostering collaboration between the two institutions.

"Our visit is aimed among others at strengthening Somalia’s peacebuilding process. This partnership marks a significant milestone that will enable Somali National University to play a greater role in training future leaders and professionals who will contribute to peace, reconciliation, and national development in Somalia," he said.

The partnership establishes a framework for joint research, curriculum co-development, academic program development, and the harmonization of teaching and training materials. It will also promote exchanges of faculty, researchers, staff, and students through short courses, executive training programs, and summer schools, creating opportunities for knowledge sharing and capacity building between Rwanda and Somalia.

Richard Niwenshuti, CEO of Rwanda Cooperation (2nd R) and Somali delegation joined the Somali in a group photo following the partnership signing ceremony