A Milestone in Academic Achievement
The University of Kigali marked a significant milestone with the graduation of 1,656 students from its Class of 2024 during its 9th graduation ceremony. The event took place at the Intare Conference Arena in Kigali on August 8, drawing a wide array of attendees including students, parents, guardians, representatives from affiliated institutions, members of the diplomatic corps, and various dignitaries. Notably, Yusuf Murangwa, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, was the chief guest at the ceremony.
Diverse Academic Achievements
The graduating class showcased a remarkable diversity of academic achievements. Among them were 525 Master’s degree recipients, 38 postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) holders, and a substantial number of Bachelor’s degree holders from different schools. Specifically, the School of Business Management and Economics contributed 593 graduates, while the School of Computing and IT had 360. The School of Law saw 141 graduates, and the School of Education welcomed 37. Gender representation among the graduates was balanced, with 848 females and 808 males, reflecting ongoing efforts to promote gender equity and inclusivity within the academic community.
Words of Encouragement from Leadership
Philibert Afrika, Chairman of the Governing Body and a member of the Board of Promoters, praised the graduates for their perseverance and resilience. He highlighted their dedication to learning and applying knowledge effectively. “I am truly proud of your achievement and confident that as you leave the University of Kigali, you will become proud ambassadors and problem-solvers for your families, communities, countries, and the world,” he said.
Afrika emphasized the importance of continued learning and the need for graduates to navigate the challenges of the modern world with courage and determination. “As you embark on your careers, remember that you are equipped to help build 'The Overcomer: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities,' for yourselves and for those around you,” he added.
Insights from the Minister of Finance
Minister Yusuf Murangwa underscored the significance of the graduation ceremony as more than just a ceremonial event. He noted that the theme “The Overcomer: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities” resonated deeply with the graduates' journey. “You turned uncertainty into insight, hardship into strength, and setbacks into comebacks. That is what overcomers do,” he remarked.
Murangwa encouraged graduates to embrace the complexities of the world they are entering, emphasizing that challenges present opportunities. He urged them to pursue their paths with passion and integrity, building networks and continuously learning to make a meaningful impact.
Growth and Vision of the University
Manasseh Nshuti, Chairman of the Board of Promoters, reflected on the university's growth since its inception. Starting with just 35 students, the institution now has over 8,000 students across Kigali and Musanze campuses. “This phenomenal transformation didn’t happen by chance. It is the result of a well-thought-out strategy, collaborative efforts, and a strong commitment to our core mission — delivering quality, relevant, and future-oriented education,” he noted.
Nshuti highlighted the university's motto, “Labour for the Future,” which encapsulates the spirit of forward-thinking resilience. He expressed confidence in the graduates’ ability to shape the future, starting with their own lives and extending to their families, communities, and beyond.
Chancellor’s Message of Hope
Carlos Fernando Sotz, Chancellor of the University of Kigali, acknowledged the challenges faced by the global educational landscape in recent years. However, he praised the university’s commitment to its mission of delivering quality education that transcends borders. “For the past 13 years, we have stayed true to our mission of delivering quality education that transcends borders. Our academic model is one that champions both local relevance and global competitiveness,” he stated.
Sotz encouraged graduates to go forward with confidence, leading with courage and remembering that they are the overcomers who create the future.
Preparing for the Future
George Kimathi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kigali, acknowledged the challenges in the job market, particularly youth unemployment. However, he emphasized that UoK graduates are not passive job seekers but creators, innovators, and problem-solvers. “You leave here with competencies that transcend borders and industries, ready to capitalize on opportunity and even create it where it does not yet exist,” he said.
The university offers academic programming through six schools, including the Graduate School, School of Business Management and Economics, School of Computing and Information Technology, School of Law, School of Education, and School of Executive and Professional Programmes. Additionally, the School of Professional and Executive Programmes collaborates with the Centre for Economic Governance and Leadership (CEGL) and Enterprise Business Solutions (EBS), serving as a hub for Executive Education, Consulting, and Advisory services.
With its distinguished academic staff and innovative programs, the University of Kigali continues to be a top institution in Rwanda, committed to fostering inclusive excellence and shaping the future.