SUMMER STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & SOCIAL INNOVATION (RWANDA)

GEI MICROCERTIFICATE IN GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT

An 8-credit microcertificate program to develop skills, knowledge, and understanding that prepare you for leadership and engagement in our global society.

AT A GLANCE

  • Microcertificate in Global Engagement Program
  • Disciplinary Track: Entrepreneurship
  • Study Abroad Destination: Rwanda
  • 2026 Dates: June 1-July 24 (8 weeks)
  • Credit: 8 U.S. credit hours (~ 16 ECTS credits) for eligible university students
  • Eligibility: Any field and level of study

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Drive Change Through Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation
The Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation program equips students and early-career professionals with the skills and experience to tackle global challenges through innovative, impact-driven solutions. Participants engage in hands-on learning, collaboration with local entrepreneurs, and exposure to emerging markets in Africa and Asia.

This program provides a unique blend of experiential learning and professional practice, allowing participants to co-create solutions with local organizations, startups, and social enterprises. Whether working on sustainable business models, inclusive technologies, or community-driven development projects, participants gain the tools to become effective global changemakers.

Beyond the placement, the program offers structured mentorship, leadership development, and networking opportunities. Students explore real-world case studies, participate in skill-building workshops, and connect with local innovators shaping their industries.

Programs are available year-round, with flexible durations (minimum 2 weeks for short-term and 4 weeks for internship-based experiences).
Program Highlights
  • Hands-on experience in social innovation: Work with local entrepreneurs and social enterprises to develop and implement impactful business solutions.
  • Intercultural collaboration & global networks: Engage with mentors, peers, and innovators across Africa and Asia, gaining firsthand insight into diverse markets and business ecosystems.
  • Leadership & problem-solving development: Strengthen entrepreneurial skills, creative thinking, and adaptability through real-world projects and structured learning modules.
  • Tailored placements & flexible formats: Participate in short-term experiential programs or longer internships, customized to your interests and career goals.

ACADEMICS

Program Structure
The Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation track of the Microcertificate in Global Engagement is an intensive, 8-credit summer program spanning eight weeks. Students embark on a transformative learning journey, exploring how business, innovation, and social impact intersect to address critical global challenges.

The program consists of two main courses and a capstone project, delivered in a structured sequence that progresses from theoretical foundations to hands-on application. Students engage with local entrepreneurs, social enterprises, and community organizations, gaining both strategic insight and practical experience in driving sustainable, impact-driven solutions.

This integrated approach ensures that students not only understand the fundamentals of social entrepreneurship but also apply their skills in real-world settings, co-creating solutions with local changemakers.
Learning Outcomes
  • Comprehensive understanding of social innovation and entrepreneurship: Gain a nuanced understanding of how business and innovation can address pressing global and local challenges through targeted modules and field-based learning.
  • Practical skills in impact-driven business and innovation: Develop hands-on skills by working directly with social enterprises, startups, and community-driven initiatives, applying entrepreneurial thinking and problem-solving in real-world contexts.
  • Strategic application of knowledge: Apply theoretical frameworks and business models to real-world social innovation projects, demonstrating the ability to design, test, and implement impact-driven solutions during the Global Practicum.
Further Details
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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.
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HOUSING & MEALS

The program includes 8 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 (8 weeks): June 1-July 24

Summe 2026: April 1

Summer 2026: US $7,950 (8 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

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