KIGALI -- China and Rwanda on Thursday signed a framework agreement on Smart Education Project in the Rwandan capital city Kigali.

The agreement was signed by Rao Hongwei, Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, and Uzziel Ndagijimana, Rwanda's Minister of Finance and Economic Planning.

"The year of 2021 is an extraordinary year for China and Rwanda. We have celebrated the 50th anniversary of China-Rwanda diplomatic relations, and witnessed numerous achievements of our practical cooperation," said Rao.

He added that "as Rwanda continues to place ICT at the center of education, China is more than happy to be a part and offer our concrete help. I firmly believe that the Smart Education Project will contribute to the betterment of digital infrastructure in Rwanda's education sector and provide a solid foundation for teaching and learning based on data and information."

Rao said that the project will create a strong impetus to the development of education in a quality and balanced way, to the cultivation of talents, and ultimately to Rwanda's socio-economic developments.

"I believe we could seize the opportunity of implementing the outcomes of the FOCAC, to work towards a successful completion of the Smart Education project, to further deepen bilateral education cooperation and cultural exchanges, and to better benefit the peoples of China and Rwanda," said Rao.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ndagijimana said that the support will contribute to Rwanda's National Transformation Strategy with a particular focus on building a knowledge-based economy through providing quality education for all.

The government of Rwanda through the Ministry of Education is embarking on promotion of digital learning by increasing the number of schools connected to affordable internet connectivity and setting up a cost effective education content sharing system through "Smart Education".

The agreement will support the implementation of the Smart Education Project which aims to improve Rwanda's education ICT infrastructure by building an education platform system, according to the Rwandan Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning.

The project scope will focus on three main areas -- dedicated education network, education data center as well smart campus and school network.

The Project will connect 63 universities and higher learning institutions, and 1,437 schools, including primary and secondary schools.

China continues to be a strong development partner to Rwanda, according to the Rwandan Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning.