The agreement was signed on September 24, 2025, during the 140th-anniversary celebrations of Yonsei University. UR was represented by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kayihura Muganga Didas, while Yonsei was represented by its President, Dr. Yoon Dong-sup.

Initially, the collaboration will focus on medicine, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). It is expected to open doors for joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, and the promotion of knowledge-based economic development in Rwanda.

Prof. Kayihura described the agreement as a major milestone for UR: “Signing this agreement with Yonsei, one of South Korea’s and the world’s leading universities, is an incredible opportunity for our students and faculty to gain international experience and collaborate with globally recognized institutions.”

He noted that the partnership builds on the existing relationship between Yonsei and Rwanda’s Ministry of Education. In April 2024, a general cooperation agreement was signed, and in June 2024, President Paul Kagame received an honorary degree in public leadership from Yonsei.

The UR Vice-Chancellor also emphasized the goal of building research that is both technologically advanced and value-driven:

“Yonsei has long been recognized for combining technology with values, especially at a time when AI is advancing rapidly but raising ethical concerns. This partnership will allow us to draw key lessons on integrating technology with Rwandan values.”