Kigali Independent University Welcomes USA for UNHCR Delegation to Advance Refugee Education
On 26 February 2026, Kigali Independent University ULK hosted a high-level delegation from the USA for UNHCR, facilitated by UNHCR Rwanda. The visit formed part of a strategic mission to Rwanda aimed at promoting and strengthening support for the DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) scholarship programme, which expands access to higher education opportunities for refugees globally.
The distinguished delegation, participating under the “Women in Philanthropy: Building Better Futures” initiative, included Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, entrepreneur and philanthropist; Jessica de Rothschild, film and theatre producer and Co-Chair of the Women’s Committee for USA for UNHCR; Alane Adams, literacy advocate and founder of the Rise Up Foundation; Laura Evans Manatos, media executive and veteran journalist; Rachael Jarosh, global social impact leader and Board Chair at U4U; and Suzanne Ehlers, Executive Director and CEO of USA for UNHCR. The delegation represents influential philanthropic leaders committed to expanding educational opportunities for displaced populations and strengthening global advocacy for refugee inclusion.
The meeting highlighted the longstanding collaboration between ULK and UNHCR in advancing refugee inclusion through higher education. Discussions emphasized the importance of sustained partnerships in expanding access, strengthening academic support systems, and reinforcing Rwanda’s refugee response as a model for global advocacy. The delegation also explored opportunities to document the impact of the DAFI programme through audiovisual storytelling featuring current scholars and alumni, supporting future advocacy and resource mobilization efforts.
The Founder and President of ULK, Prof. Dr. Rwigamba Balinda, warmly welcomed the delegation. In his remarks, he reflected on his enduring passion for education, the vision behind establishing ULK, and the transformative power of education in shaping individuals, communities, and nations. He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to inclusive, accessible, and high-quality higher education.
Prof. Dr. Rwigamba Balinda the Founder and President of ULK with Princess Marie-Chantal De Grece during the meeting
He underscored ULK’s comprehensive student support framework designed to ensure academic success and social integration for both local and international students, including refugees. These measures include a dedicated Students’ Affairs Office, the Center for English Language Advancement (CELA) to bridge language gaps, a uniform fee structure with flexible payment modalities, affordable hostel facilities for male and female students, vibrant co-curricular and cross-cultural engagement opportunities, and continuous investment in research excellence, modern infrastructure, and quality teaching and learning policies.
In addition, ULK maintains strong partnerships with reputable national and international institutions, enhancing academic exchange, research collaboration, professional development opportunities, and global exposure for students and staff. These strategic partnerships strengthen institutional capacity, promote innovation, and ensure that graduates are equipped with competitive knowledge and skills relevant to both local and international labor markets. The impact of these collaborations is reflected in improved academic standards, expanded research outputs, increased mobility opportunities, and stronger graduate employability outcomes.
The Founder was joined by senior university leadership, including the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Martins Onyekwelu Onuorah, the Director of Digital Innovation and Internal Controls, the Director of Academics Mr. Rigwizangoga Emmanuel, the Personal Assistant to the Founder, and the Public Relations Officer.
The visit reaffirmed ULK’s strategic role in promoting refugee access to higher education and demonstrated how collaboration between academic institutions and international humanitarian partners can generate lasting impact. Through its continued engagement with UNHCR and USA for UNHCR, Kigali Independent University remains steadfast in its mission to provide inclusive, high-quality education while contributing meaningfully to global efforts aimed at building better futures for refugees and host communities alike.
