In 2008, Rwanda became the first country in the world to have a majority of women in Parliament. President Paul Kagame defined investing in women as smart economics and a vital part of the national strategy.

The idea for Akilah was directly inspired by their passion for creating opportunities for young women to become leaders and entrepreneurs in this new economy.

Akilah graduates have jobs now that didn’t even exist in Rwanda five years ago. They work in digital finance, cybersecurity, conservation, drone companies, and agribusiness.

These young women have created the foundation for the unique Akilah culture that celebrates creativity, innovation, and bold goals.

Our success is inextricably linked to the Rwandan leadership at all levels. And we would not be celebrating ten years of success had we opened our doors anywhere else in the world.

Akilah’s success is also the foundation upon which we are building Davis College’s future. Today, we’re proud to share an exciting milestone for Davis College and Akilah Rwanda: the submission of our 10,000th application to the Class of 2022!

While Davis College is open to both male and female students and Akilah remains a unique environment for female leaders, we celebrate creativity, innovation, and bold goals across all of our campuses. And while we’re already enrolling students from across the region and around the world, Rwanda will always be home to our founding class and community.

We look forward to meeting the future leaders and entrepreneurs of the Class of 2022!