The university was created under a 2026 law published in the Official Gazette on April 10, consolidating various military and security training institutions into a single, high-level academic center.
Its formation reflects Rwanda’s strategic vision to adapt to evolving global and regional security challenges by investing in advanced training, research, and international academic cooperation.
NDUR is expected to become a cornerstone in shaping Rwanda’s future security leadership. The institution will focus on enhancing professional training, fostering cutting-edge research, and strengthening global partnerships in military education.
It will serve a broad range of learners, including members of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), personnel from other security organs, senior government officials, and international partners. The university will offer programs from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, including Master’s and PhD degrees, all aligned with internationally recognized standards.
Under Rwandan law, the Chancellor of this university is the President of the Republic, who also serves as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.
In this role, President Kagame will provide strategic direction to ensure the university fulfills its mission of producing highly skilled experts in military and security affairs. He will also preside over graduation ceremonies or appoint a representative to do so, reinforcing the institution’s national importance.
NDUR will be governed by a 13-member Board of Directors, the university’s highest decision-making body. The board will be responsible for setting strategic direction, approving policies and annual plans, overseeing performance, and managing budgets and partnerships. Seven of the board members will be appointed by presidential order and selected from experts in military affairs, education, research, and development.
The board will also include key university representatives such as the Vice-Chancellor, a faculty representative, a Dean elected by peers, a quality assurance officer, and a student representative.
In line with Rwanda’s gender equality commitments, at least 30% of the board members must be women. Members serving by virtue of their positions will hold four-year terms, renewable once.
The Rwanda Defence Force has confirmed that construction of the university is already underway in Bumbogo Sector, Gasabo District, in the City of Kigali.
According to RDF spokesperson Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga, the construction works are progressing steadily, and once completed, the university is expected to play a transformative role in building the capacity of military and security leaders.
NDUR will bring together existing military colleges, police academies, and institutions affiliated with the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS).
This integration is expected to streamline and strengthen the delivery of education and training across Rwanda’s security sector, enhancing coordination and ensuring a cohesive approach to national and regional security challenges.
As Rwanda continues to position itself as a leader in security and governance in Africa, the establishment of NDUR marks a forward-looking investment in knowledge, leadership, and resilience.
With President Kagame at its helm as Chancellor, the university is poised to become a center of excellence, producing highly trained professionals capable of addressing complex security dynamics both within Rwanda and beyond.