University of Global Health Equity

University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) is a private, not-for-profit university dedicated to training the next generation of leaders in global health equity.

The idea for UGHE emerged in the early 2000s, when PIH leaders began to recognize the need for a new kind of university that would train health professionals to address the persistent inequities in global health. At the time, there were few universities that offered comprehensive training in global health, and even fewer that focused on the social and political determinants of health.

In 2005, PIH co-founded UGHE with the Cummings Foundation, a Boston-based philanthropic organization. The university's first class of students enrolled in 2007.

UGHE quickly gained a reputation for its innovative curriculum and its commitment to community engagement. The university's graduates have gone on to work in a wide range of settings, including government ministries, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions.

In 2015, UGHE moved to its new campus in Butaro, Rwanda. The campus is located in a rural area, which allows students to gain hands-on experience working with underserved communities.

University of Global Health Equity is ranked as the #2 top university in Rwanda during 2025. The rank is improved by 1 point from last year.