During the event, President Kagame reflected on the partnership that started in 2006 when the first ten Rwandan students travelled to Oklahoma Christian University through the Presidential Scholars Program.

He noted that, two decades later, the initiative has produced more than 700 alumni who now serve in strategic leadership positions, including senior government officials and executives in the private sector.

“In 2006, the first ten Rwandan students went to study at Oklahoma Christian University through the Presidential Scholars Program. Two decades later, there are more than 700 alumni who serve in strategic leadership positions, including senior government officials and executives in the private sector. Because of the success of our Presidential scholars, more universities started extending scholarship opportunities to privately funded students,” President Kagame said.

The Head of State emphasized the importance of investing in education and skills development for Africa’s youth, saying talent alone is not enough without action and opportunity.

“We often talk about Africa having an abundance of talent, but the conversation cannot end there. It is important to follow this with action, and equip our young people with the knowledge and skills to compete with the rest of the world,” he added.

President Kagame also highlighted Rwanda’s progress in higher education and innovation, noting that the country now hosts several world-class institutions aligned with Rwanda’s ambition of becoming a regional innovation hub.

“Rwanda has now own several world class institutions. This aligns with our country’s vision of becoming the regional hub for innovation,” he said while speaking on the legacy of the 20-year partnership with Oklahoma Christian University.

The President further commended the Oklahoma Christian University Rwanda alumni for representing the country well and thanked sponsors and partners whose contributions helped sustain the partnership over the last two decades.

“Keep on representing us well. If you ever need anything, do not shy away from asking, we are here for you,” President Kagame told the alumni.

“As a country, we look forward to continuing building on the achievements of our strong collaboration. Twenty-years is a special milestone. Let’s keep working together to write the next chapter of our journey,” he concluded.