On 29 November 2024, forty professionals who completed training in drone operations were awarded certificates after successfully completing a three-week drones course under the newly established Drone Knowledge and Skills Hub in the African Center of Excellence in Internet of Things(ACEIoT).

The training took place at the College of Science and Technology under a newly established Drone Knowledge and Skills Hub and was provided by the team from Auterion Ltd.

Auterion Ltd is a global leader in designing operating systems and software solutions for drones to advance drone technology and skills development in Rwanda

The training was conducted in two cohorts each comprised of 20 trainees from stakeholders of the Rwanda Drone Industry such as Zipline, Locus Dynamics, Ministry of defense, University of Rwanda, Rwanda space agency, Charis, RISA, Rwanda National Police, Rwanda polytechnic, FabLab and MINICT. Trainees from the University of Rwanda include international students at ACEIoT from Nigeria, Mali and Mozambique.

The establishment of the Drone Knowledge and Skills Hub resulted from a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in December 2022, between the Government of Rwanda – represented by Rwanda Development Board and Auterion Limited, to establish the Drone Knowledge and Skills Hub in Rwanda.

In the mentioned MoU, the University of Rwanda- College of Science and Technology(UR-CST) has been designed as one institution to implement the MoU particularly the capacity building and training component on the envisioned partnership where the drones Knowledge and Skills hub will be established. The hub is in charge of equipping Rwandans with required knowledge and skills in the aspects of drones’ operations.

Trainees expressed that the training provided a valuable opportunity to enhance their skills in this emerging industry, which is still developing in Rwanda.

Ms Adeline Uwizeyimana , one of the trainees from Charis, said that while she was familiar with the rules and regulations, she now has a deeper understanding of what drones are truly about.

“I managed to assemble the drones. I didn’t just gain skills but also the confidence to dive into this male-dominated industry. We are grateful to the trainers, as it is difficult to find skilled individuals who are open and willing to share their knowledge,” she said.

Antoine Sebera, the Government Chief Innovation Officer at Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), congratulated the participants and highlighted the significant career opportunities in the drone industry, as well as government plans to support its growth. He encouraged the participants to apply the skills they have gained and seize these emerging opportunities.

Prof. Damien Hanyurwimfura, who spoke on behalf of the Principal of the College of Science and Technology, congratulated the trainees on their success and urged them to use the skills they acquired to advance the drone sector in Rwanda and beyond. He thanked the Auterion Ltd team for the skills and knowledge in drones operations they have provided to participants.