Honoring Success: Insights from the 9th University of Rwanda Graduation

Friday, 17 November 2023- Musanze: The 9th University of Rwanda graduation ceremony unfolded with excitement at Ubworoherane Stadium in Musanze District. Hon. Gaspard Twagirayezu and Hon. Claudette Irere graced this prestigious event, celebrating graduates' academic achievements. The prestigious event brought together graduating candidates from diverse academic levels, proud parents/guardians, and esteemed education stakeholders a collective celebration of achievements.

The 9th graduation ceremony was a remarkable affair, honoring 8,321 students from UR’s six colleges: 5,063 males and 3,258 females. Out of the 8,321 graduates, 221 received diplomas, while 7,435 were conferred with advanced diplomas and bachelor’s degrees. In addition, 627 received postgraduate certificates, diplomas, and master’s degrees. The graduation ceremony also honored 38 students with Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees.

The College of Education (CE) boasted the highest number of 3,591 graduates receiving their degrees, followed by the College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) with 1,361. The College of Science and Technology came third with 1,323 graduate students, while 1,080 are from the College of Business and Economics (CBE). The College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, and the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) had 550 and 416, respectively.

In his remarks, Hon. Gaspard Twagirayezu highlighted, "The 9th graduation ceremony is a great opportunity to reflect on the University of Rwanda's progress over the last 10 years, with increased centers of excellence, expanded partnerships, and a notable contribution to the research ecosystem. As we step into the next decade, the evolution of technology, the dynamics of globalization, and the shifting socio-economic landscapes will demand a fundamental rethinking of the role universities play in shaping our society."

Hon. Minister of Education Gaspard Twagirayezu

Minister Twagirayezu also emphasized the enduring connection of recent graduates to the University of Rwanda as their alma mater, highlighting the lasting friendships and partnerships formed. He also affirmed the government's commitment to supporting the university's transformation, focusing on forward-looking management structures, relevant program design, sustainable funding, and improved services for students and alumni.

The graduation also saw the awarding of degrees to 127 international students from 20 nationalities: Cameroon, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Malawi, Burundi, China, Mali, Namibia, Peru, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The University of Rwanda Graduation Ceremony was more than just a symbolic event; it was a testament to the dedication of the graduates, the progress of the University of Rwanda, and the commitment of the government to the future of education in Rwanda. As the graduates step into the next decade, they carry with them the knowledge, experiences, and values instilled by their alma mater, ready to contribute to the continued success and development of their communities and the nation at large.