article

Transforming Teaching and Learning in Rwanda’s HEIs

Editor/author
Dr Eila Burns
Photographer
HEP-TED project

Rwanda is rapidly transforming its higher education sector through digital innovation. Responding to this national need, our ongoing project the Higher Education Pedagogies for Teacher Education (HEP-TED) is contributing to practical solutions.

HEP-TED group photos and Rwanda university and Rwanda polytechnic buildings.

As part of the project, we provided digital-pedagogy training for digital champions from Rwanda Polytechnic (RP) and the College of Education at the University of Rwanda (CoE). In collaboration with colleagues, Dr Eila Burns from Jamk University of Applied Sciences, Dr Noel Mporananayo from RP,  Dr Delphine Mukingambeho from CoE, and Dr Siru Lehto from Jamk, we examined how this training supported educators’ professional growth, applying Senge’s Five Disciplines as an analytical framework. 

Participants reported clear improvements in personal mastery, mental models, and team learning, indicating improved reflective practice and stronger collaboration across teams. The most significant development needs emerged in the areas of shared vision and in systems thinking, which suggest that a deeper understanding of organisational interrelations requires more time and support. 

Overall, the study shows that while digital competence is important, lasting transformation depends on committed institutional support, cross departmental collaboration, and a culture that values continuous learning. These insights align strongly with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and NST2 priorities, particularly the national goals for innovation, accountability, and developing a digitally skilled workforce. 

Our findings highlight a key message that developing a digital learning culture is not only about tools or training — it is about building adaptive, connected, and forward looking institutions.

Read the full article on EAPRI Proceedings 2025 

Burns, E., Lehto, S., Mporananayo, N. & Mukingambeho, D. (2026). Building pedagogical learning organisations in Rwanda: an application of Senge’s framework. Eapril 2025 Conference proceedings. Eapril conference proceedings 2025 (pdf)  
 

More information:

Eila Burns

Vanhempi tutkija, Senior Researcher
AOKK TKI&Palvelut, Professional Teacher Education, RDI and Services
Ammatillinen opettajakorkeakoulu, Professional Teacher Education
+358405323126

The Higher Education Pedagogies for Teacher Education

HEP-TED project aims to develop and strengthen the capacity of Rwandan higher education institutions.