Promoting Rwandan Culture and Kinyarwanda

Today, INES Ruhengeri hosted the Rwanda Elders Advisory Forum (REAF) for a dialogue with the Vice Chancellor and members of staff on the preservation of Rwandan culture and the promotion of the Kinyarwanda language.

Conducted entirely in Kinyarwanda, the dialogue provided an opportunity for participants to exchange views, ideas and recommendations on strengthening cultural identity and encouraging the continued use of Kinyarwanda in Rwandan society.

During the session, INES Ruhengeri highlighted some of the initiatives through which the University contributes to the preservation and promotion of Rwandan culture. These include Itorero, which provides students with opportunities to learn and showcase traditional dances, poetry and other aspects of Rwanda’s cultural heritage.

Members of INES Ruhengeri's cultural troupe at RBA (Radio Rwanda Studio) during Igitaramo nyarwanda 

The University also encourages students to learn about Rwanda’s history and heritage through educational visits to museums, historical sites and other cultural places. Such activities complement classroom learning by enabling students to connect academic knowledge with Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage.

The engagement with REAF further demonstrated the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and cultural stakeholders in ensuring that Rwanda’s culture and language remain valued and relevant among present and future generations.

The REAF delegation pledged to continue advocating with policymakers for greater promotion and preservation of Rwandan culture and Kinyarwanda, while encouraging institutions such as INES Ruhengeri to continue creating spaces where young people can learn, practice and appreciate their cultural heritage.