*Education and innovation goals build on bedrock of sporting ties between Doha and Kigali
A Qatar Cyclists team recently made a 550km bicycle ride in Rwanda, in support of education and innovation in the country.
The trip started from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, with 17 Qatari cyclists, covering the northern parts of Rwanda followed by the eastern and southern areas of the country while discovering the most important cultural landmarks and the picturesque nature.
The trip began on October 10 and reached the finish line on October 17.
The initiative achieved several sporting goals, which include strengthening sportsmanship and co-operation between local cyclists from the Qatar Cyclists team and members of the Rwandan national team, with the aim of enhancing ties between the two teams and foster the spirit of leadership among professional cyclists as well as amateurs.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame with the Qatar Cyclists team
The trip included a visit to historic and archaeological sites, given that Rwanda is a living example of the advancement of life from the verge of death after the brutal civil war that had a devastating impact on its land and people.
After Rwanda’s return to life, 'The Land of a Thousand Hills' became one of the most important destinations for tourism and sports, especially for cyclists, being one of the most important bike-friendly countries.
In addition to its geographical diversity, Rwanda is characterised by the rich environmental and animal life, such as rare mountain gorillas, which the team visited, along with other forests and nature reserves.
The team undertook a number journeys and adventures, and a significant aspect of the trip involved going to local schools and universities, organised by World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), an initiative of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development that aims to provide education for all.
The cyclists during their trip
The visit to the schools started with a warm welcome from the local mayor and speeches.
In addition, there were public talks on the importance of education for Qatar and Rwanda equally.
While education was the main factor in Rwanda’s journey after the civil war, Qatar, too, flourished not only because of its natural resources, but also through education.
Activities in the schools continued and the two countries had exchanges on culture and traditions through various performances and by introducing the Qatari culture.
The team also gave the students gifts sponsored by Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC).
A significant aspect of the trip involved going to local schools and universities
On a visit to the Akilah Institute, the team met with the centre’s president to discuss various societal issues and the impact of education on society.
The institution provides an opportunity to women in need to earn their own income and help them support themselves by educating them and providing different programmes — economic, technological and more.
The Qatar Cyclists team then rode in the mountains and travelled by lakes and hills to meet locals and share food and culture with them, and preserved those cherished moments through pictures.
Qatar Cyclists also collaborated with the Africa Rising Cycling Centre and planned future joint events, including sponsoring a number of outstanding Rwandan cyclists to come to Doha and participate in local sporting events.
On Wednesday, Rwandan President Paul Kagame met the Qatar Cyclists in Doha and commended the noble objectives of their trip. The team presented Kagame with their jersey.
