The Regional Centre of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and e-Health, an initiative of the University of Rwanda, is set to launch in early 2023. The University of Rwanda, in partnership with Kigali Innovation City (KIC), commissioned MASS to design the center, which is expected to become a hub for leading clinicians and technicians in Rwanda’s healthcare sector.
Before the establishment of this center, there was a lack of dedicated departments or programs in biomedical engineering and e-health at the University of Rwanda, requiring students interested in the field to travel abroad. This center represents a significant commitment by the University of Rwanda and its partners to promote advancements in biomedical engineering and e-health within the region.
According to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the facility will consist of a new building that integrates offices and incubators in partnership with Africa50 and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA). The center also aims to become a benchmark for biomedical innovation and engineering throughout Africa.
In terms of design, the seven-story building will incorporate the patterns and designs of local craft tradition, imigongo, and the historical King’s Crown. As for energy efficiency, the building’s plans and programming incorporate passive principles such as daylighting and natural ventilation, enabling airflow and temperature control.
This initiative holds the potential to positively impact healthcare systems and patient care in the region. One crucial area of research that can be advanced through this center is tissue and stem cell engineering. Scientists will have the opportunity to explore and develop methods for engineering new organs to address the critical issue of organ shortages for transplantation.
The University of Rwanda’s investment in specialized education and research facilities creates a supportive environment for students and faculty to explore innovative solutions, conduct cutting-edge research, and contribute to improving healthcare technologies.
