Rwandan President Paul Kagame stands at center with a delegation of eight people posed on the steps inside the Office of the President in Kigali, Rwanda. Two Rwandan flags and an official government seal are visible in the background.

Symposium

June 17, 2026 · Kigali

Kent State University will host a high-level symposium to formally launch Kent State University Rwanda and convene leaders from government, academia and industry.

Purpose

The symposium will:

  • Establish a shared vision for the initiative
  • Align stakeholders across sectors
  • Strengthen institutional partnerships
  • Signal long-term commitment and collaboration

Program Highlights

  • Academic keynote on the creative and fashion industries in Africa
  • Multi-stakeholder panel discussion
  • Formal project presentation and official launch declaration
  • Ministerial address
  • Curated local designer pop-up showcase
  • Networking cocktail reception and fashion presentation

Participants

Approximately 70 invited participants from government, higher education, industry and development organizations.

Kent State Representation

Dr. Marcello Fantoni, Vice President for Global Education, will be present in Kigali for the symposium with an official Kent State delegation. Senior university leadership will participate remotely.

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