National Council for Science and Technology (Rwanda)

The National Council for Science and Technology (NCST) leads Rwanda’s mission to become a knowledge-based economy driven by science, technology, and innovation. NCST works to ensure research directly enhances national development, improves well-being, and supports inclusive, sustainable growth.

By aligning innovation with national priorities, NCST aims to create a society where science is embedded in entrepreneurship, job creation, and competitiveness. It plays a vital role in integrating research into policy and practice, ensuring that scientific advances translate into real benefits for Rwandan communities.

NCST promotes collaboration among researchers, industry leaders, and communities. These partnerships ensure that scientific research is relevant, impactful, and responsive to the needs of the people.

Strengthening Research Through SGCI

Rwanda joined the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) to strengthen its science funding systems and research management capacity. NCST has greatly benefited from the SGCI’s targeted capacity-building efforts.

One key initiative was NCST’s participation in a regional workshop on research and grant management. Conducted in partnership with the Southern Africa Research Innovation Management Association and the Eastern Africa Research and Innovation Management Association, the workshop aimed to improve grants administration across Sub-Saharan Africa.

These efforts are helping NCST build robust systems that support transparent, effective research funding and implementation.

Promoting Commercialisation and Innovation

NCST is enhancing the uptake and commercialisation of research results. Under the SGCI, NCST has funded five commercialisation-focused projects that link academia with the private sector. These projects aim to bridge the gap between research and industry, turning scientific results into market-ready products and services.

By fostering innovation ecosystems and strengthening research infrastructure, NCST ensures that science and technology contribute meaningfully to Rwanda’s transformation.