GWU Africa Center Follows the Peace Corps into Rwanda

WASHINGTON (January 27, 2009) — On January 27 at the Peace Corps headquarters, representatives from The George Washington University (GWU) Africa Center for Health and Human Security joined Peace Corps staff in hosting 35 health Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV) who were leaving for a new program in Rwanda. This event marked the expansion into Rwanda of the Health Information Exchange Program partnership between GWU and the Peace Corps.

James L. Scott, Dean of the GWU School of Medicine and Health Sciences, warmly welcomed the first class of PCVs traveling to Rwanda in over a decade by recounting his experience in the Peace Corps where he served in Sierra Leone. “Your contribution will have a lasting effect on the communities in which you serve in Rwanda,” explained Dean Scott. “GWU is behind you every step of the way through the technical and moral support we provide through this exchange.” The Health Information Exchange Program centers around a group listserv that allows GWU Medical Center students to answer technical questions and to assist PCVs in developing on-the-ground efforts.

Following the information session, everyone was invited to a reception where the Rwandan Ambassador, H.E. James Kimonyo, and Peace Corps Acting Director, Dr. Jody Olsen, gave remarks and welcomed the GWU partnership. Dr. Olsen said, “As neighbors in Washington, D.C., we are glad to be collaborating with GWU because they provide unique technical support for our volunteers.” As the world advances technologically, the health sector can utilize these university resources to help others provide improved and more efficient health services in Africa. The Health Information Exchange Program uses the PCVs limited internet access as a tool to aid them in program development in Ethiopia and now, Rwanda.

At the staging, the PCVs had an opportunity to get to know the GWU students on a more personal level. Many of the GWU students are involved in the Master’s International Program that combines a master’s degree and overseas service in the Peace Corps.

The Africa Center offers multiple opportunities for students, faculty, and donors to get involved with the Africa Center’s events and programs. For upcoming opportunities please contact the Africa Center at gwafricacenter@gwumc.edu.