Nyagatare, Rwanda | May 26, 2026
The University of Rwanda – College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (CVAS), in collaboration with the Rwanda Animal Welfare Organization (RAWO), Welfare for Animals Guild Rwanda (WAG), and the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW), proudly celebrated the official launch of the Student Animal Welfare (SAW) Club at the Nyagatare campus.
The event brought together students, academic leaders, animal welfare advocates, and development partners in a shared commitment to advancing animal welfare education and fostering ethical veterinary practice in Rwanda. The opening remarks was given by the Principal of CVAS as the Guest of Honor, alongside the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine and representatives from partner organizations.
Throughout the launch event Principal of CVAS emphasized the growing importance of animal welfare as a key component of veterinary education and professional practice. He highlighted that strengthening students’ knowledge, practical skills, and ethical values will help prepare a new generation of professionals capable of addressing animal welfare challenges while contributing to public health, food security, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic development.
RAWO Executive Director remarks focused on giving students testimony on his professional journey from normal veterinary to Animal welfare advocate both national to international level. He mentioned that student’s animal welfare clubs is one of initiatives RAWO is establishing to promote animal welfare from young generations especially veterinary students and young private veterinary professionals to become advocates for animal welfare. As future veterinarians and animal health professionals.
The students shared their insight on how established SAW Club will provide them the opportunities to engage in learning, research, advocacy, networking, and community outreach initiatives. Through awareness campaigns, educational programs, field activities, and student-led projects, members will gain practical experience while promoting responsible animal care both within the university and surrounding communities.
Beyond serving as a student platform, the club is expected to create lasting impact by fostering compassion, professionalism, and evidence-based approaches to animal welfare. It will strengthen collaboration among students, academic institutions, practitioners, and animal welfare organizations, helping shape future leaders who will influence animal health and welfare policies across Rwanda.
The launch of the SAW Club reflects Rwanda’s growing commitment to integrating animal welfare into higher education and veterinary training. By investing in young professionals today, the country is building a future where animals are treated with greater care and respect, communities benefit from improved animal health and productivity, and veterinary professionals become champions of ethical and sustainable development.
RAWO extends its sincere appreciation to the University of Rwanda – College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, students, academic staff, WAG, UFAW, and all partners whose support made this achievement possible. Together, they are nurturing the next generation of veterinary leaders and advancing a more compassionate future for animals and communities alike.
