MEDS philosophy

After observing that Rwanda’s own limited resources require management in such a manner that they can be made to last, and the country’s concern to be in the forefront in the advancement of environmental knowledge and practice; UNILAK established the master’s program in environmental and development (MEDs).

In line with the above, this program that focuses on management of natural resources and the environment for sustainable development is built into the compliance to the constitution of Rwanda which entitles every citizen to enjoy a healthy environment and requires the same citizen to safeguard it but there is an increasing emphasis being laid on environmental management in the country…” which, unfortunately, had “not received sufficient intellectual and scholarly backing”. Furthermore, the establishment of this program is also in line with the mission of UNILAK to contribute to the national development by providing well-educated citizens capable of handling developmental challenges, with much emphasis on quality education both on moral and intellectual basis.

The MEDS curriculum is therefore designed to create graduates who are both professionally competent and marketable. To accomplish this goal, emphasis is placed on ensuring that teaching, field work, and thesis give students both the theoretical rigour and a thorough appreciation of the practical and real work problems in environment and development issues. Ultimately, the programs are meant to provide Rwanda with an opportunity to give environmental and development studies a planned home.

MEDS specialization

Master of Environmental and Development Studies (MEDS) has the following specialization:

·       International development studies

·       Environmental economics and natural resource management

·       Environmental Information Systems

Duration

This MED program is of two years duration for full time students. Each year shall be divided into two semesters.