Six years after a peace treaty ended a decade of genocide that virtually wiped out the majority of the educated citizens of the central African country of Rwanda, UALR and four other Arkansas universities are helping 25 eager students become a new generation of mathematicians, scientists, engineers, and computer specialists for the country wracked by genocide.

The 25 young Rwandans arrived in Little Rock a week ago after a grueling 25-hour travel itinerary to begin a summer of intensive English language study at UALR. In the fall, they will start a four-year quest to earn degrees their countrymen hope will begin to rebuild Rwanda’s shattered economy.

“We know the people of Arkansas will open their hearts to these bright young people who have struggled to learn while enduring hardships most of us cannot imagine,” said Dr. Charles Donaldson, vice chancellor of educational services and student services.

He led a team of UALR administrators, as well as representatives of Hendrix College on a trip to Rwanda April 4 to15 to select 25 students to come to Arkansas. Following a summer in intensive English language training, 10 of the students will enroll at UALR, six will attend Hendrix College, and four will attend Harding University. Two each will attend Philander Smith College and Wofford College in South Carolina, and one will attend Ouachita Baptist University.

UALR and the other participating schools signed a memorandum of understanding with the Rwandan government providing that the Rwandan government will pay student expenses such as housing and books. Each participating university will offer a tuition scholarship.

“As part of our commitment to the global community, UALR is offering scholarships to these students,” Donaldson said. “These scholarships will not impact the scholarships we normally offer.”

Since their arrival in Little Rock on May 23, the students have moved into UALR’s apartment-style residence halls, undergone orientation, and started intensive English classes.

But LaJuana Magee, director of International Friendship Organization of Central Arkansas, said her organization has helped the newcomers to adjust to their surroundings, taking them to Riverfest and other activities. The friendship group also is helping with transportation and providing an occasional home cooked meal.

“Although living and studying in a foreign country is a great adventure, it can also be confusing and sometimes lonely,” Magee said. “IFO offers many things to help make their time in Arkansas a wonderful experience.”