RICA Announces Admission and Scholarship
Opportunities for the 2026/2027 Academic Year
The Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA), located in
Bugesera District, has officially opened the call for applications for its 2026/2027
academic year. This announcement marks an exciting opportunity for Rwandan
students who aspire to pursue high-quality education in conservation
agriculture, agribusiness, and innovative agricultural technologies. RICA
continues to build a strong reputation as one of Rwanda’s leading agricultural
training institutions, combining academic excellence, hands-on experience, and
a strong focus on entrepreneurship.
The application window for the 2026 September intake will run from December
5, 2025, to January 16, 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to
prepare early and submit all required documents before the deadline.
About RICA: Transforming Agriculture Through Education
The Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture was established with a
clear mission: to educate and inspire a new generation of agricultural
professionals who will lead Rwanda and the region into a more sustainable and
productive agricultural future. Located in Gashora Sector, Bugesera District,
RICA offers a unique learning environment where students gain both academic and
practical skills.
The institute uses a competency-based model that emphasises hands-on
learning, real-world practice, problem-solving, and innovation. Students spend
a significant portion of their time applying classroom concepts in fields,
labs, workshops, and business simulations. This approach prepares graduates not
only to work in agriculture but also to innovate and create scalable solutions
that transform communities.
RICA’s programs integrate:
- Conservation
agriculture principles
- Agribusiness
management
- Animal and crop
production
- Food systems
innovation
- Community engagement
and leadership
Through this holistic
education model, the institute aims to equip students with the knowledge and
commitment needed to build resilient agricultural systems.
Full Scholarships for All Admitted Students
One of the distinguishing features of RICA is its commitment to
accessibility. Every student admitted to RICA receives a full scholarship,
ensuring that financial barriers do not limit talented young people from
pursuing quality education.
The scholarship covers:
- Tuition Fees – Students study at
RICA without paying academic charges, making it easier for them to focus
on learning and personal development.
- Medical Insurance – All students
receive comprehensive health coverage throughout their studies.
- Accommodation – RICA provides
on-campus housing, creating a safe and supportive student community.
- Meals on Campus – Students benefit
from nutritious meals, ensuring good health and energy for their demanding
academic and practical schedule.
This full-funding model reflects RICA’s vision of building a generation
of agricultural innovators who come from diverse backgrounds and have equal
access to education.
Why Study at RICA?
1. Practical and Applied Learning
Students at RICA learn by doing. The institute’s farm units, labs, and
business centers enable learners to work with crops, livestock, machinery, and
business operations, gaining real experience from day one.
2. World-Class Facilities and Resources
RICA’s infrastructure is modern and specifically designed to support
agricultural and environmental learning. Students access advanced tools,
digital technologies, and professional mentorship.
3. Entrepreneurial Mind-set
Entrepreneurship is a core part of the curriculum. Students are trained
to identify problems, design solutions, and develop sustainable business
models. Many graduates go on to start their own enterprises or lead innovations
in agriculture.
4. Leadership and Community Transformation
RICA emphasizes leadership training, empowering students to contribute
positively to their communities. Graduates are expected to lead change, train
fellow farmers, and support national agricultural goals.
5. Strong Institutional Support
With mentorship from agricultural experts, advisors, and industry
partners, students receive continuous academic, professional, and personal
support throughout their learning journey.
Eligibility and Application Process
Prospective applicants can
find detailed admission requirements and eligibility criteria through the
official RICA admissions page:
www.rica.rw/admissions
The application process
typically includes:
- Completing an online
application form
- Uploading academic
documents such as secondary school certificates or national exam results
- Submitting
identification documents
- Providing motivation
statements or essays
- Meeting the minimum
academic requirements set by RICA
- Participating in
interviews or assessments where applicable
Candidates are encouraged
to read all instructions carefully and ensure they submit accurate and complete
information.
Important Dates to Remember
- Applications Open: December 5, 2025
- Applications Close: January 16, 2026
Applicants must ensure that all required documents are submitted before
the closing date. RICA does not consider late applications, and early
submission is strongly encouraged to avoid last-minute challenges such as
missing files or internet issues.
A Message from the Interim
Vice Chancellor
The official call for
applications was signed by Olusegun Adebayo Yoakum, PhD, Interim Vice
Chancellor of RICA. In the announcement, he reaffirmed the institute’s
commitment to training future agricultural leaders and innovators who will
contribute to Rwanda’s vision of a modern, competitive, and sustainable
agricultural sector.
RICA continues to position
itself as a key partner in advancing conservation agriculture, empowering
youth, and supporting national and regional food security strategies.
How RICA Contributes to Rwanda’s Development Vision
Rwanda aims to modernize
its agricultural sector, improve food security, and create employment
opportunities—especially for youth. Institutions like RICA play a strategic
role in this transformation by:
- Producing skilled
agricultural professionals
- Driving innovation in
farming and agribusiness
- Supporting sustainable
land management
- Enhancing rural
development through trained graduates
- Encouraging
entrepreneurship to boost economic growth
The institute’s focus on
conservation agriculture aligns with Rwanda’s environmental goals and
climate-resilient agricultural strategies.
Therefore
The opening of the 2026/2027 admissions cycle at the Rwanda Institute
for Conservation Agriculture presents a remarkable opportunity for students
passionate about agriculture, leadership, technology, and community
transformation. With a full scholarship covering all essential needs,
world-class training, and a curriculum designed to build practical and
innovative skills, RICA stands out as one of the most supportive educational institutions
in the region.
Students who wish to be part of this transformative journey should
prepare their applications early and submit them before January 16, 2026.
By joining RICA, they take the first step toward becoming leading contributors
to Rwanda’s agricultural and economic development.
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