From early October to early November 2025, a delegation from the National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) conducted a series of institutional visits across the three Rwandan universities participating in the ANSWER Project — the University of Rwanda (UR), INES-Ruhengeri, and the East African University Rwanda (EAUR). The objective was to review ongoing progress in disability inclusion and strengthen collaboration to advance accessible and student-centred learning environments in higher education.
The mission began at the University of Rwanda – College of Education (UR-CE), where NCPD representatives visited the UR Nyagatare and UR Rukara campuses from 4–5 October. The delegation met with university leadership, toured student support facilities, and held discussions with Students with Disabilities (SWDs). The visit focused on assessing existing support mechanisms, identifying opportunities for improvement, and reinforcing cooperation between UR-CE and the ANSWER consortium.
Later in the month, from October 27 to 28, the NCPD delegation continued its engagement at INES-Ruhengeri. Led by Mr. NDAYISABA Emmanuel, Executive Secretary of NCPD, and welcomed by Fr. Dr. BARIBESHYA Jean Bosco, Vice-Chancellor of INES-Ruhengeri, the visit assessed the university’s efforts to foster an inclusive learning environment. The delegation toured the Student Support Centre established through the ANSWER Project, examined campus accessibility, and engaged with students to understand their experiences. Students highlighted the Centre’s positive influence on their academic and social inclusion, while the NCPD commended INES for its strong institutional commitment.
The mission concluded on November 3–4, 2025, with a visit to the East African University Rwanda (EAUR). The NCPD delegation evaluated the Student Support Centre (Resource Room), met with university management, and held discussions with students. The visit reaffirmed EAUR’s dedication to ensuring equal learning opportunities for all. Recommendations included strengthening staff training, upgrading assistive technologies, enhancing physical accessibility, and expanding partnerships with local authorities and model schools.
Together, these institutional visits represent an important milestone in the implementation of the ANSWER Project, co-funded by the European Union, which aims to support inclusive and accessible higher education systems across Rwanda. The continued collaboration between NCPD, the universities, and the ANSWER consortium reflects a shared vision of equity, empowerment, and meaningful participation for all students with disabilities.
