Kigali, 17 November, 2023- Kigali, REMA, in collaboration with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences in Rwanda(AIMS_Rwanda), celebrated the graduation of over 45 professionals from public,  private institutions as well as  non-profit organizations who completed  a capacity-building program in climate change analysis &reporting, known as "Evidence-Based Climate Reporting Initiative (ECRI)"

The Evidence-Based Climate Reporting Initiative (ECRI), a 9-month program, was initiated by REMA and contracted to AIMS_Rwanda for professional training with the aim of advancing climate change reporting methodologies and research in Rwanda.  The program commenced in February 2023, and the trainees have successfully completed three intensive courses, namely:

• Advanced Excel for Data Analysis
• Climate Modeling using Mathematical Models
• Mathematical Models for National Greenhouse Gases (GHG) Inventory and Projection

Dr. Lamek Nahayo, an ECRI graduate, expressed the graduates' commitment to applying their skills to benefit their communities. "We promise that the skills we gained will not fall in vain. We will use them to help our communities," He affirmed

Prof. Dr. Yala, AIMS Network president, conveyed his trust in the ECRI graduates during his welcome remarks.

"Dear graduates, I’m confident that you are now equipped to advance climate change reporting methodologies, hence adding value to your organizations." He stated

During the graduation ceremony, Deputy Director General of REMA, Faustin Munyazikwiye, highlighted the program's positive impact on Rwanda's climate actions

"As Rwanda strives towards becoming a low carbon & climate resilient economy by 2050, I have no doubt that your contributions will be invaluable. I urge you to continue to pursue excellence in your work and I have confidence that you will make a meaningful difference" He said

"The manner in which ECRI was implemented is certainly a commendable approach that enables employees to maintain their professional commitments while improving their skills" He added

The graduation was honored by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Patrick Karera. He acknowledged the program and congratulated the graduates.

"I would like to thank and congratulate the graduates for their dedication and hard work throughout this program. Your achievements will contribute to policy development and enhance your day-to-day work" He stated

In a strategic move towards long-term collaboration, REMA and AIMS signed a 5-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to build capacity in climate change research. The MoU includes a one-year professional services contract focusing on conducting capacity-building activities on climate change reporting methodologies. These activities were implemented as part of the Evidence-based Climate Reporting (ECRI).

ECRI structured on three pillars, namely: Training program, Research collaboration, and Work-Integrated Learning program. In line with these pillars, AIMS provided in-person training for three courses; promoted research collaboration through joint scientific publications and technical assistance; and embedded five AIMS alumni at REMA for 6-month research internships, leveraging its Work-Integrated Learning framework.

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