The University of Technology and Arts of Byumba (UTAB), in partnership with the Growing Rwanda Energy Awareness Through Higher Education (GREATER) project, successfully hosted the SDG Global Goals Week on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Groupe Scolaire Byumba Catholique.

The high-level event convened academics, development partners, European professors, and local stakeholders to deliberate on how Rwanda and its partners can accelerate progress towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Gracing the occasion was the Mayor of Gicumbi District, Mr. Nzabonimpa Emmanuel, who underlined the importance of local innovation in driving sustainable growth.

“Investing in clean energy and education is investing in the future of our people. This Living Lab is not only a source of power but also a source of knowledge that will inspire generations,” Mayor Nzabonimpa said.

A key highlight of the event was the official launch of the Living Lab (Small Photovoltaic Power Plant) at Groupe Scolaire Catholique Byumba. The facility, developed with support from the GREATER project through the Erasmus+ programme, is designed to serve as an innovative educational tool for clean energy and climate action.

According to UTAB officials, the Living Lab will provide hands-on training opportunities for students and researchers while also supplying the host school with renewable energy. The initiative is expected to inspire practical climate solutions that directly improve community livelihoods.

The event also showcased the outcomes of collaboration between four Rwandan universities and European partner institutions under the GREATER project. This partnership aims to strengthen academic capacity, promote sustainable energy research, and align higher education with community needs.

Professors from Europe delivered keynote presentations, sharing insights on advancing sustainability through joint research, education, and community engagement.

UTAB’s Vice Chancellor, Fr. Dr. MUNANA Gilbert,noted that the event reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s national priorities and the global SDG agenda. “Through education, innovation, and partnerships, we believe we can empower communities to become active drivers of sustainable change,” he said.

The successful hosting of SDG Global Goals Week in Gicumbi not only highlighted the role of universities in development but also signaled a renewed commitment to tackling pressing global challenges through local action.

Stakeholders agreed that initiatives like the Living Lab serve as practical models for integrating education, research, and community service towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.