SUMMER STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & SOCIAL INNOVATION (RWANDA)


A 4-credit Global Field Engagement Course in Rwanda

AT A GLANCE

  • Global Field Engagement Course
  • Disciplinary Track: Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation
  • Study Abroad Destination: Rwanda
  • 2026 Dates: June 6-26 (3 weeks)
  • Credit: 4 U.S. credit hours (~ 8 ECTS credits) for eligible university students
  • Eligibility: Any field and level of study

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Engage with Global Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation in Rwanda
Embark on a transformative journey and complete a Global Field Engagement Course focused on entrepreneurship and social innovation. This program offers a deep dive into impact-driven business solutions, underpinned by six core modules exploring key entry points to economic development, sustainable business models, and social entrepreneurship.

Situated in Rwanda, a country recognized for its thriving startup ecosystem and innovation in social enterprise, the program blends theoretical learning with hands-on application, providing students with a dynamic and impactful educational experience.
Program Highlights
  • Interdisciplinary learning: Explore how business, technology, and social impact intersect through an integrated curriculum on entrepreneurship and innovation.
  • Field-based insights: Visit social enterprises, startups, and incubators to see real-world applications of business as a tool for social change.
  • Community impact: Work on entrepreneurial projects that not only enhance your learning but also support local innovators and changemakers.

ACADEMICS

Program Structure
The Global Field Engagement Course in Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation is an intensive, 4-credit program spanning three weeks, plus pre-program eLearning. Students embark on a transformative learning journey, exploring how business, innovation, and social impact intersect to address critical global challenges.

The program is delivered in a structured sequence, progressing from theoretical foundations to hands-on application in real-world settings. Students engage with local entrepreneurs, social enterprises, and innovation hubs, gaining both strategic insight and practical experience in designing impact-driven solutions.

This approach ensures that students not only understand the fundamentals of social entrepreneurship but also apply their skills in collaboration with local changemakers.
Learning Outcomes
  • Comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship and social innovation: Gain a nuanced understanding of how business and innovation drive social and economic change through targeted modules and real-world case studies.
  • Practical skills in impact-driven business and innovation: Develop hands-on skills by engaging with local entrepreneurs, social enterprises, and incubators, applying entrepreneurial thinking and problem-solving in real-world settings.
  • Strategic application of knowledge: Apply theoretical frameworks and business models to community-engaged projects, demonstrating the ability to analyze challenges, develop solutions, and contribute to sustainable business practices.
Further Details
Empty space, drag to resize

YOUR DESTINATION: RWANDA

One of today’s greatest development success stories, Rwanda is Africa’s prime study abroad jewel. The country underwent a breathtaking transformation since the 1994 genocide. A model for poverty reduction and economic growth, it accounts for the highest percentage of women in parliament anywhere in the world. And the streets of its modern green capital Kigali are clean, safe, and free of corruption.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a model of resilience, sustainability, and cultural transformation.

As part of the program, you will immerse yourself in the country’s inspiring progress and rich traditions. In Kigali, visit the Genocide Memorial, explore vibrant markets, and take an eye-opening walking exploration of the colorful streets of Nyamirambo guided by the charming women of the Nyamirambo Women's Center.

Rwanda’s countryside offers unforgettable cultural and nature experiences. Walk through coffee and tea plantations, visit a traditional Imigongo art workshop, and take a boat ride on Lake Kivu.
Trek to see the endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park or explore the lush Nyungwe Forest, home to chimpanzees and canopy walks. Use your weekends to visit Akagera National Park, where conservation efforts have reintroduced the “Big Five.”

Rwandan hospitality is very special, and you’ll have the opportunity to share meals with local families and learn about traditional customs. Try brochettes (grilled meat skewers), the popular ugali (maize porridge), and freshly roasted Rwandan coffee, widely regarded as some of the best in the world.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.

HOUSING & MEALS

The program includes 3 weeks in Rwanda. For this time, GEI Rwanda offers different housing options that students can choose from, pending availability. These include:

  • Homestays: Typically single rooms, with shared bathroom, and access to a kitchen and living room
  • Serviced apartments: Single or shared double rooms, with shared bathroom, and access to a kitchen and living room
  • University residence halls at our local partner universities: Shared double rooms, with shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities
  • Simple guesthouses: Shared double rooms, with shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities


Homestay host families typically provide breakfast and dinner. Students in serviced apartments, university residence halls, or guesthouses are usually responsible for all meals outside of core course meals.

You can find additional information in the following blog post: Accommodation – What to expect.

DATES, FEES, AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Program Dates

Application Due Date

Fees

Summer 2026 (3 weeks): June 6-26

Summe 2026: April 1

Summer 2026: US $3,650 (3 weeks)

At GEI, we strongly believe in equal access to academic opportunities in study abroad. In order to help eliminate financial barriers, we offer a variety of merit scholarships, trailblazer scholarships, and opportunity scholarships and grants, ranging from $500 to full tuition awards. Each year, GEI is awarding several hundred thousand dollars in scholarships. You can find further information as well as additional resources for external funding opportunities in the following blog post: Scholarships & Grants.

RWANDA

STAFF

All of our staff are highly experienced and resourceful professionals.
Yvan Rubengebenge
Center Director
Francoise Uzamukunda, MA
Academic Coordinator
Denyse Iradukunda, BA
Program & Student Services Coordinator
Rachel Irakoze, BA
Program & Student Services Coordinator
Espoir Baraka, BA
Student Life Coordinator
Janvier Muhire, MSc
Student Life Coordinator
Kelly Uwase
Student Life Coordinator

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE