International Entrepreneurship Summer School 2025 held at ULK
From May 26 to June 2, 2025, Kigali Independent University ULK, in collaboration with DSIK, Kempten University of Applied Sciences, the Rwanda Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM), and the Rwanda Institute of Cooperatives, Entrepreneurship, and Microfinance (RICEM), hosted the highly anticipated International Entrepreneurship Summer School. This immersive program brought together a diverse group of participants eager to enhance their entrepreneurial skills through practical learning experiences.
The Summer School offered an intensive curriculum designed to equip participants with both foundational and advanced entrepreneurial knowledge. The program featured a variety of activities and thematic sessions, including: Micro Business Simulation Game Training which was an interactive session where participants engaged in simulated business scenarios to develop strategic thinking and decision-making skills. Practical Entrepreneurship Case Study Assignments which focused on real-world case studies that challenged participants to analyze and propose solutions to current entrepreneurial challenges. Business Development and Growth where workshops focused on strategies for scaling businesses and fostering sustainable growth. Company Visits were also conducted on-site visits to Bakhresa grain milling Rwanda ltd AZAM which deal in food processing and Ministry of trade and Industry, providing participants with firsthand insights into operational practices and entrepreneurial journeys. Financial Inclusion which raised discussions on the importance of inclusive financial systems and their role in fostering entrepreneurship. Green Economy & Green Finance sessions highlighting sustainable business practices and the integration of environmental considerations into financial planning. Business Model Canvas that focused on training on utilizing the Business Model Canvas as a tool for developing and visualizing business models and Psychometric Test and Ring Toss Game an engaging activities aimed at assessing entrepreneurial traits and fostering team collaboration.
Celebrating Achievement
The program culminated in a closing session where participants presented their case study results, demonstrating the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the week. Each participant was awarded a certificate of completion, recognizing their dedication and accomplishments during the Summer School.
Students presenting their case study results
Some participants receiving their certificates
The success of the 2025 International Entrepreneurship Summer School underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering entrepreneurship education. By bringing together academic institutions, government bodies, and industry experts, the program provided participants with a holistic understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape. As Kigali Independent University ULK continues to champion initiatives that empower future entrepreneurs, the impact of such programs is poised to resonate across Rwanda and beyond.
The closing ceremony was also attended by Ruth Madl, Country Director of DSIK, Becky Balinda the Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration and Finance at Kigali Independent University, Julia Peylo a lecture in the faculty of business administration at Kempten University, Oliver Schuster the DSIK Africa Project Manager
In her closing remarks the Assoc. DVCF&A Ms. Becky Balinda appreciated the efforts and resources injected by all partners to ensure that 2025 summer school becomes a success. “Kigali Independent University ULK remains committed to maintaining the strong partnership and providing required support to always ensure required goals are met” she added.
Ms. Becky Balinda giving her remarks during the closing ceremony
Julia Peylo from Kempten University of Applied Sciences thanked Kigali Independent University ULK and its management for warm welcoming, hospitality and all other support rendered to ensure that the objectives of the program are satisfied.
Julia Peylo speaking to all participants during the closing ceremony
Students from both Kempten University and ULK expressed their appreciation and a chance given to learn from each other and shared great experiences towards both social and entrepreneurship spheres.
