Strengthening Partnerships and Enhancing Learning through the ACCESS WIKI Platform

29 November 2024

From November 26th to 28th, 2024, the ACCESS Rwanda Team embarked on a series of field visits to three universities in Rwanda: ICK (Institut Catholique de Kabgayi), EAUR (East Africa University of Rwanda), and UTAB (University of Technology and Arts of Byumba).

The primary objective was to strengthen existing partnerships, evaluate the use of the ACCESS WIKI platform, and explore future collaboration opportunities to engage students, graduates, and alumni more actively in the ACCESS project.


Day 1: ICK – November 26, 2024


The trip began at ICK, where the morning session introduced the ACCESS project and the ACCESS WIKI platform. Facilitators, including Fabrice Nkurunziza and Dr. Eric, provided a comprehensive overview of ACCESS’s mission and its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The session highlighted how the project supports academic and professional development, fostering a collaborative learning environment. In the afternoon, the focus shifted to strategies for engaging students, graduates, and alumni in the project. Participants explored tools like the Spider Game on the ACCESS WIKI platform, designed to enhance teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Day 2: EAUR – November 27, 2024


On the second day, the team visited EAUR, where the session followed a similar format to the previous day. Participants were introduced to the ACCESS WIKI platform and its role in academic collaboration, enhancing learning, and preparing students for career success. The afternoon session focused on practical application, engaging students in platform usage, and encouraging alumni involvement. The "Coordinate Mesh" exercise was a key activity, promoting diversity training and fostering empathy among participants, emphasizing inclusivity in higher education.


Day 3: UTAB – November 28, 2024


The final day took the team to UTAB, where the morning session provided another detailed overview of the ACCESS project and the platform's tools. The participants learned how to navigate the platform and use its resources for teaching and learning. The afternoon session, led by Jean Marie and Marie Cecile, centered on engaging students and alumni with the ACCESS WIKI platform. The "Snakes in Collaboration" activity was a highlight, designed to strengthen teamwork and communication skills. This interactive session showcased the importance of collaboration in achieving shared goals.

The three-day trip proved to be a valuable exercise in strengthening partnerships and evaluating the practical use of the ACCESS WIKI platform across universities. The sessions underscored the importance of involving students, graduates, and alumni in ensuring the sustainability of the project. The tools provided by the platform, such as the Spider Game, Coordinate Mesh, and Snakes in Collaboration, offer significant potential to enhance academic engagement, teamwork, and diversity in university settings.

Looking ahead, it is crucial to continue nurturing these relationships, ensuring that all stakeholders remain actively engaged with the ACCESS platform. Mentorship and follow-up visits are key strategies for fostering lasting connections and collaboration among universities, businesses, and the broader community.

 

The ACCESS Rwanda field trip to ICK, EAUR, and UTAB marked a significant milestone in building stronger university partnerships and enhancing the impact of the ACCESS project. The hands-on activities and platform tools provided during the visit were well-received, ensuring the project's continued success and engagement. With these strong foundations in place, the ACCESS project is poised for further growth, benefiting students, alumni, and the academic community at large.


You Might Also Like

    01 September 2022

    INES-Ruhengeri in collaboration with the STEP Power project of the Israeli Embassy in Rwanda awarde…

    LEARN Now
    05 June 2024

    During a book launch ceremony at INES-Ruhengeri, Bishop Vincent Harolimana highlighted the intricat…

    LEARN Now
    21 May 2022

    General Assembly of the International Students took place at INES-Ruhengeri, the Africa’s Icon of A…

    LEARN Now