Prime Minister Dr. Nsengiyumva Urges 9,000 UR Graduates to Uphold Rwandan Values

Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva has called on graduates of the University of Rwanda (UR) to embrace and live by Rwandan cultural values in all they do, saying this will help them achieve their dreams and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.

He delivered the message on October 17, 2025, during a colorful graduation ceremony held at the university’s Huye Campus, where 9,526 students completed their studies across various disciplines.

Among them, 8,462 earned bachelor’s degrees, 697 obtained master’s degrees, and 35 were awarded PhDs.

Dr. Nsengiyumva described the graduation day as a significant milestone marking the beginning of a new journey for the graduates and the country at large.

“Seeing you today is seeing Rwanda’s bright future,” he said. “What you will do next forms the foundation of our nation’s development. Our vision is clear — to build a knowledge-based economy. Institutions of higher learning are key partners in creating skilled experts who will drive transformation.”

The Prime Minister reminded the graduates that a diploma alone is not enough, urging them to look beyond titles and use their knowledge to solve real-world challenges.

He also cautioned them that they will face obstacles in their careers but should remain resilient and guided by the values they acquired through education.

“You will face challenges, but do not be discouraged. Let your professionalism and integrity as true Rwandans guide you wherever you go,” he said.

UR Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kayihura Muganga Didas, commended the graduates for their perseverance, emphasizing that today’s world moves fast and is being reshaped by technological innovation and artificial intelligence. He urged them to become leaders in this evolving landscape.

“Challenges will always exist, but what matters is how you respond to them,” Prof. Muganga said. He extended his appreciation to parents and guardians for their dedication, noting that their sacrifices made this achievement possible.

He reminded the graduates that success is a lifelong commitment and encouraged them to stay connected with UR, serving as proud ambassadors of both the university and the country wherever they go.

Prof. Muganga also thanked UR’s development partners who have contributed to its growth, particularly those offering internship placements to students support he said is essential to the university’s mission of nurturing Rwanda’s next generation of professionals.

One of the graduates, Mitali Caleb, from the Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, expressed gratitude on behalf of his peers.

“We are proud of this achievement and deeply thankful to our parents and lecturers who stood by us,” he said. “We are now ready to innovate, work hard, and contribute to building the Rwanda that raised us.”