Innovation came to life at Mount Kigali University (MKU) as the School of Computing, Informatics & Media Studies welcomed learners from École Notre Dame des Anges for an immersive Educational Visit Programme themed “Learning the Humanoid Robotics and STEM Education.” The half-day programme introduced the visiting students to cutting-edge technologies including humanoid robotics, Virtual Reality (VR), drones and Artificial Intelligence (AI) while giving them a firsthand experience of university life.
The visit formed part of MKU’s commitment to nurturing curiosity, promoting STEM education and inspiring young people to pursue careers that will shape the future of Africa’s digital economy. During the visit, the learners explored how emerging technologies are transforming industries across healthcare, education, media, engineering, agriculture and business. They also toured the university’s laboratories and interacted with academic staff and students who demonstrated how these technologies are integrated into learning.
One of the highlights of the visit was the live demonstration of a humanoid robot, where students witnessed how artificial intelligence enables machines to interact with people, respond to commands and perform real-world tasks. The excitement continued as learners experienced Virtual Reality (VR), immersing themselves in digital environments that simulate real-life scenarios used in practical teaching. They also observed drone technology, learning how unmanned aerial systems are applied in mapping, agriculture, security, filmmaking and environmental monitoring.
Unlike many institutions where students only study these technologies theoretically, the visitors saw how MKU students actively use robotics, VR and drone technology during practical sessions to strengthen their understanding of classroom concepts and develop industry-ready skills. Speaking during the programme, Dr. Douglas Omwenga Nyabuga, Dean of the School of Computing, Informatics & Media Studies, emphasized that universities must prepare learners for a rapidly evolving technological landscape. “Technology is changing every industry, and our responsibility is to prepare learners not just for today’s jobs but for the careers of tomorrow. At Mount Kigali University, we integrate emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, robotics, Virtual Reality and drones into teaching because we believe innovation should be experienced, not only discussed. We want our students to graduate as creators, problem-solvers and digital leaders capable of transforming society.”
Dr. Nyabuga encouraged the visiting learners to remain curious and embrace STEM subjects, noting that innovation begins with asking questions and exploring new possibilities. The educational visit also introduced the learners to university life through discussions on academic programmes, scholarships, student life and career opportunities. Faculty members and student leaders shared insights on higher education and the importance of developing practical skills alongside academic knowledge.
For many of the visiting students, experiencing these technologies firsthand transformed what they had previously only seen in books or online. One learner remarked: “I had never worn a Virtual Reality headset before. It felt like stepping into another world. It has inspired me to study technology because now I know these innovations are real and accessible.” Another student expressed excitement after interacting with the humanoid robot. “Meeting the robot and seeing the drone fly was amazing. Today has shown me that technology is not something to fear, it is something we can learn and use to solve problems.” The demonstrations were facilitated by MKU students from the School of Computing, Informatics & Media Studies, showcasing the university’s learner-centred approach where students gain practical experience while mentoring future innovators.
By exposing young learners to advanced technologies before they join university, MKU continues to strengthen Rwanda’s vision of becoming a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy. The initiative reflects the university’s investment in experiential learning, industry-relevant education and the development of graduates equipped with globally competitive digital skills. As the visit concluded with a guided tour of the university’s laboratories and interactive sessions with current students, one message stood out clearly: the future is not waiting, and at Mount Kigali University, students are already building it. Through initiatives such as this Educational Visit Programme, Mount Kigali University continues to distinguish itself as a premier institution where technology, innovation and practical learning converge to empower the next generation of leaders, innovators and digital professionals.
