RCA Background

About RCA

Rwanda Coding Academy (RCA) trains the next generation of software engineers and tech leaders. We focus on providing hands-on ICT education to solve real-world problems.

Our students gain the skills and knowledge to thrive in the global tech industry and make a positive impact in their communities.

About RCA

To Produce quality and excellence in software engineering workforce development.

Our mission is to train young talented and gifted Rwandans in software programming, promote quality and excellence in coding skills, and position Rwanda as a software development talent hub.

Our goals at RCA are centered on academic excellence, real-world applicability, and fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship. We aim to develop a robust educational environment where students can thrive and evolve as leaders in the tech sector.

We aim to increase industry partnerships, enhance research capabilities, and continuously improve the curriculum to reflect the latest technological advancements. Our goal is to prepare students for success in the competitive global job market and foster lifelong learning.

Through our innovative approach, we intend to produce highly skilled graduates who are equipped to drive technological progress and lead in their chosen fields.

Rwanda Coding Academy (RCA) was established as part of Rwanda's ambitious vision to become a knowledge-based economy and a regional tech hub. From its inception in 2019, RCA has been transforming Rwanda's ICT landscape through innovative, practical education in software development and cutting-edge technologies.

Background & Motivation (Pre-2019)

Rwanda had been investing heavily in ICT as a key driver of economic growth, but faced a shortage of skilled software engineers despite the growing tech industry. Existing institutions weren't producing enough job-ready programmers. Inspired by global coding schools like 42 (France), Holberton School (USA), and Moringa School (Kenya), Rwanda created its own specialized institution.

Establishment (2019)

Officially inaugurated on January 28, 2019 by President Paul Kagame in Nyabihu District, RCA was built with Rwf 5 billion (~$5 million) government funding. As a public, tuition-free institution, it welcomed its first intake of 60 students (later expanded to 120 per year).

Mission & Objectives

RCA was created to produce world-class software developers, reduce reliance on foreign IT experts, and promote innovation in AI, cybersecurity and IoT. The academy aligns with national strategies including Vision 2050, Digital Transformation Strategy (2025), and the Smart Rwanda Master Plan.

Growth & Development (2020-Present)

The first cohort began intensive training in 2020. By 2021-2022, RCA expanded partnerships with tech giants like Andela, Google and Microsoft. The academy graduated its first software engineers in 2023, introduced AI & cybersecurity tracks in 2024, and continues to scale up with advanced technologies.

Key Milestones & Achievements

  • First coding-focused high school in Africa with 100% practical curriculum
  • Graduates working at KLab, BAG Innovation and Rwanda's ICT Chamber
  • Hosted national and regional hackathons
  • Integrated with Smart Education initiatives like OLPC

Future Goals

RCA plans to expand enrollment to 120+ students annually, introduce blockchain and cloud computing specializations, strengthen industry partnerships, and become a model for African tech education.

Today, Rwanda Coding Academy stands as a pioneering institution that reflects Rwanda's commitment to becoming a global tech leader, shaping the next generation of African innovators through hands-on coding education.

Rwanda Coding Academy (RCA) is fully accredited by the Government of Rwanda through the Ministry of Education and the Rwanda Education Board. This accreditation confirms that our academic programs are designed, delivered, and assessed according to the highest national educational standards. RCA’s mission is to nurture world-class software engineers, embedded systems specialists, and cybersecurity experts who can contribute meaningfully to Rwanda’s digital transformation and beyond.

As part of our accreditation guidelines, RCA ensures that all programs undergo periodic reviews and quality audits conducted by external evaluators and educational authorities. This guarantees that the curriculum remains relevant, rigorous, and aligned with both national priorities and global industry standards. Our students benefit from a learning environment that prioritizes excellence, innovation, and accountability at every stage of their education.

Internationally, RCA aligns its programs with global benchmarks in computer science and engineering education. Our accreditation reflects compliance with international best practices in teaching, research, and industry partnerships. This global recognition makes it easier for RCA graduates to pursue higher education abroad or to enter competitive technology job markets around the world with confidence and credibility.

Our curriculum is built on a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge combined with hands-on, project-based learning. RCA accreditation requires that we continuously update our teaching methods to incorporate emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), and Data Science. This ensures that our students graduate not only with strong technical expertise but also with the ability to adapt quickly to an ever-evolving tech landscape.

In addition to academic accreditation, RCA maintains strong collaborations with industry leaders, government agencies, and international partners. These collaborations provide additional layers of validation for our programs, ensuring that they are not only academically sound but also industry-relevant. Through internships, mentorships, and joint projects, our students gain practical exposure that complements their classroom learning.

Furthermore, RCA upholds strict accreditation guidelines regarding student welfare, faculty qualifications, and infrastructure standards. From providing state-of-the-art laboratories and modern learning facilities to ensuring that faculty members are highly qualified professionals, RCA consistently meets and exceeds the criteria required for institutional accreditation.

Ultimately, RCA’s accreditation is more than a formal recognition—it is a promise to parents, students, and the broader community that our academy will continue to deliver education of the highest quality. It reflects our unwavering commitment to developing Rwanda’s next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in the global digital economy.

At Rwanda Coding Academy, we are proud to have a dedicated and dynamic team that drives the academy's mission and vision. Our team is composed of experienced professionals who ensure that our students receive the best possible education and support.

Niyigena Papias

Project Manager

Niyigena plays a pivotal role in overseeing the smooth operation of all academy projects, ensuring that our initiatives align with the academy's goals and objectives. His leadership and organizational skills are key to the academy's success.

Mukantwari Claudette

Accountant

The accountant is responsible for managing the academy's financial operations, ensuring transparency, and helping to allocate resources efficiently. This role ensures that the financial aspects of RCA run smoothly.

Karomba Benon & Mukashema Benilde

Discipline Staff

Karomba and Mukashema work closely with students to maintain a positive and disciplined learning environment. They play an essential role in fostering a conducive atmosphere for both learning and personal growth.

Tuyiringire Moise & Mukashema Benilde

Nursing Staff

Tuyiringire and Mukashema provide healthcare support to students, ensuring their well-being and offering medical assistance whenever needed. They contribute greatly to the health and safety of the RCA community.

Instructors

Teaching Staff

Our instructors are the backbone of RCA, with each bringing expertise and passion for teaching the next generation of software developers. Their hands-on approach to learning ensures that our students are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in the tech world.