Richard Kabanda
Frankfort,KY
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in research and academic management at Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture. Proven leadership in curriculum development and data analysis, enhancing student engagement and performance. Skilled in Controlled Environment Agriculture and digital platforms, driving operational efficiency and fostering collaborative environments. Committed to sustainable practices and educational excellence.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Graduate Research Assistant
Kentucky State University
Frankfort, USA
08.2024 - Current
- Conduct research on horticultural crops (leafy greens) under Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) systems.
- Collaborate with USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Wooster, Ohio, focusing on sustainable practices and crop nutrition research.
- Mentor undergraduate students in laboratory and field settings.
- Operate hydroponic systems, manage germination protocols, and oversee greenhouse operations.
- Apply fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides safely, effectively; manage soil, and water quality.
- Design experiments, collect and analyze data, and contribute to scientific publications.
Senior Executive and HR Coordinator – Administration and Operations
Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA)
Bugesera, Rwanda
01.2022 - 01.2024
- Provided high-level executive support to institutional leadership.
- Coordinated administrative workflows and operational logistics across departments.
- Led human capital planning, recruitment, onboarding, and performance evaluations.
- Facilitated staff development initiatives and organizational efficiency improvements.
- Managed confidential communications and strategic reporting.
Academic Support & Resources Manager
Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA)
Bugesera, Rwanda
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Oversaw digital academic platforms including Moodle, Turnitin, and EBSCOhost.
- Developed and implemented student support programs such as peer tutoring and academic advising.
- Provided training and support for faculty and staff on educational technologies.
- Monitored academic performance and coordinated interventions for at-risk students.
Academic Support Coordinator
Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA)
Bugesera, Rwanda
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Delivered academic guidance and mentorship to students.
- Coordinated institutional assessments and supported curriculum alignment.
- Facilitated workshops and seminars to enhance student-learning outcomes.
- Collaborated with faculty to improve instructional delivery and student engagement.
Instructor – General Sciences
Africa College of Theology
Kigali, Rwanda
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Taught foundational science course to undergraduate students.
- Mentored students in academic and personal development.
- Designed course materials and assessments aligned with institutional standards.
- Promoted critical thinking and scientific inquiry in classroom settings.
School Principal
Africa New Life Ministries Education Program
Kigali, Rwanda
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Led and managed a PreK–12 educational institution.
- Supervised curriculum implementation, discipline systems, and teacher performance.
- Fostered a positive school culture and improved academic outcomes.
- Engaged with parents, stakeholders, and community leaders to support school initiatives.
Child Sponsorship Coordinator / Child Development Officer
Africa New Life Ministries
Kigali, Rwanda
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Managed child sponsorship programs and donor communications.
- Developed reports, advocacy materials, and program documentation.
- Coordinated child development activities and monitored progress.
- Ensured compliance with organizational policies and donor expectations.
High School Teacher – Biology & Chemistry
FAWE Girls’ School
Gahini, Rwanda
01.2010 - 01.2012
- Taught biology and chemistry to high school students.
- Provided career counseling and academic mentorship.
- Designed engaging lesson plans and laboratory activities.
- Supported students in science competitions and extracurricular learning.
Education
Master of Science - Environmental Studies
Kentucky State University
USA07.2025
CPD Diploma - School Leadership and Management
University of Rwanda
Rwanda12.2019
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction
Concordia University
Portland, Oregon, USA12.2016
Bachelor of Science - Food Science and Technology
Kigali Institute of Science and Technology
Rwanda12.2009
Skills
- Leadership & Team Building
- Curriculum Development & Instruction
- Research & Data Analysis
- Controlled Environment Agriculture
- Greenhouse & Hydroponic Systems
- Academic & Student Affairs Management
- Lab & Field Research Techniques
- Executive Support & Report Development
- Digital Proficiency
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Google Suite
- Moodle
- Turnitin
- SIS Systems
- Data Tools: Excel
- SPSS
Certification
- Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Certificate
- Science Lab Safety Training Certificate
- Franklin County Health Department Food Handler Permit
- Kentucky Certified Private Pesticide Applicator Certificate
Languages
- English, Proficient (C2)
- French, Intermediate (B1)
- Kinyarwanda, Native
Languages
English
First Language
French
Intermediate (B1)
B1
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Graduate Research Assistant
Kentucky State University
08.2024 - Current
Senior Executive and HR Coordinator – Administration and Operations
Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA)
01.2022 - 01.2024
Academic Support & Resources Manager
Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA)
01.2021 - 01.2022
Academic Support Coordinator
Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA)
01.2019 - 01.2021
Instructor – General Sciences
Africa College of Theology
01.2017 - 01.2019
School Principal
Africa New Life Ministries Education Program
01.2016 - 01.2019
Child Sponsorship Coordinator / Child Development Officer
Africa New Life Ministries
01.2012 - 01.2015
High School Teacher – Biology & Chemistry
FAWE Girls’ School
01.2010 - 01.2012
Master of Science - Environmental Studies
Kentucky State University
CPD Diploma - School Leadership and Management
University of Rwanda
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction
Concordia University
Bachelor of Science - Food Science and Technology
Kigali Institute of Science and Technology
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