An inaugural tech summit organized by the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK) has highlighted how emerging technologies can create real impact—improving lives, building opportunities, and empowering students and innovators to transform ideas into action. Dubbed the International Conference on Computing, Information Sciences, and Technology (ICC-IST 2026), the summit was held on Wednesday, March 25. The event united global experts, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to explore how cutting-edge technologies can drive sustainable development, solve pressing societal challenges, and unlock new opportunities for communities. Exploring technology for sustainable development The conference, held under the theme “Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Sustainable Development: Innovative Solutions for a Changing World,” also created room for broader conversations on artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), cybersecurity, and other fast-evolving technologies. UNILAK Vice Chancellor Prof. Jean Ngamije said the discussions come at a time when societies are facing increasingly complex challenges, from climate change to public health emergencies. “Preparedness is no longer optional, it is essential,” he said, pointing out that emerging technologies are already transforming how communities respond to such challenges. He cited Rwanda’s use of drones to deliver medical supplies as an example of how innovation can make a real difference. “What once took hours can now take minutes, saving lives when every second matters,” he said. Prof. Ngamije, however, stressed that progress must go hand in hand with responsibility, particularly in areas such as ethics, data privacy and digital inclusion. “Technology is not simply about progress; it is about people,” he added. The Head of Quality Standards Department at Higher Education Council (HEC), Theoneste Ndikubwimana, commended UNILAK for convening the conference, noting that “the timing of this conference is paramount as today’s world calls for stronger digital competencies, innovative entrepreneurship and collaborative problem solving across disciplines.” He underscored the growing role of advanced technologies such as AI in delivering real-time solutions, including in areas like road traffic management, while praising the university’s leadership in promoting research and innovation. “Platforms such as (ICC-IST 2026) provide valuable opportunities to share ideas, to showcase solutions and to build networks that transcend borders. They allow researchers and entrepreneurs to connect, learn from each other and translate knowledge into ventures that create impact,” he said. He stated that digital transformation must remain a priority, warning against exclusion as technology advances. “Bridging the digital divide, promoting gender equality in STEM and supporting young innovators are essential for building an innovation ecosystem that benefits all,” he said. Student innovations take center stage Beyond the formal sessions and expert discussions, it was the innovations on display. Across the exhibition space, students presented practical solutions responding to everyday challenges. Some focused on improving access to services, like a smart queuing system that allows users to track their position remotely and only show up when it is their turn. Others tackled personal and social needs, including applications for financial tracking, mental health monitoring, and tools to optimise power usage. One of the projects that drew particular interest was an eye-controlled computer system, designed to allow users to operate devices without using their hands. The innovation, still under development, is especially relevant for people with limb disabilities or mobility challenges. Edmond Masengesho, who developed the app said, said the idea came from a personal observation during his studies. “The project allows people to interact with their computers using their eyes without touching anything,” he said. “I saw a person with that disability and asked myself how that person could do what I can do.” Now, about 90 per cent complete, the system only requires a computer and a webcam, making it both accessible and affordable. Masengesho hopes to refine it further before releasing it for public use. “It will not be expensive because it requires only a personal computer,” he said, encouraging other young people to act on their ideas. “Get out of your comfort zone and do what you have to do for society.” He further pointed to the economic potential of digital data if properly harnessed. “That same information can also be an opportunity, it can help you create value, build businesses and generate income,” he said. Tuape further emphasised the need for stronger investment in digital infrastructure and local innovation, noting that many global tech companies profit from data generated in countries that do not fully benefit from it. “If we invest more in technology, we create opportunities for ourselves,” he said. “We can build our own platforms and use our own data to grow our economies.” He called for greater collaboration among African countries, particularly in building data systems needed to support homegrown AI solutions. “We need to work together to create and own our data,” he said. “Without that, it becomes difficult to develop technologies that truly respond to our needs.” From technology consumers to creators Papias Niyigena, the Principal of Rwanda Coding Academy, echoed the call, encouraging young people to move from being consumers of technology to creators. “We are living in the AI era. Some fear it will take jobs, but for the young, it is also creating opportunities,” he said. “This is the time to start creating our own solutions that will drive our economy.” UNILAK acknowledges technology as a transformative force shaping how societies respond to challenges and create opportunities. The university signaled its commitment to continue using such platforms to nurture home-grown innovations, support collaboration, and encourage students to move beyond theory into building practical solutions.
