UR Graduates Urged to Use Skills to Drive Rwanda’s Development

Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana, has urged 4,953 graduates of the University of Rwanda (UR) to use their knowledge and skills to solve societal challenges, create employment opportunities and contribute to the country’s development.

Nsengimana made the call during the university’s 12th graduation ceremony held at Rukara Campus in Kayonza District, where graduates received qualifications across undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes.

“Your degree is an important achievement. But its true value will be demonstrated by what you do with the knowledge and skills you have acquired,” Nsengimana told the graduates.

He encouraged them to look beyond seeking employment and instead focus on creating value, addressing community needs and developing solutions to challenges facing Rwanda and Africa.

“I encourage you to look beyond the question, ‘Where will I find a job?’ Ask yourselves, ‘What value can I create? What challenge can I help solve? How can I contribute to Rwanda’s development?’"he said.

The minister said the country’s future would depend on how effectively its citizens translate knowledge, ideas and professional skills into practical results.

“Rwanda's future will be shaped by the knowledge we acquire, the ideas we develop, the work we do, and the values we uphold,” he said.

“You are now part of the generation entrusted with turning our country's ambition into reality. We believe in you, we are proud of you, and we look forward to the contribution you will make to Rwanda and to the world.”

Nsengimana also urged the graduates to remain resilient in their professional journeys, emphasising that early career challenges should not determine their long-term prospects.

“Your first job does not define your entire career. Your first setback does not determine your future. What matters is your determination to keep learning, adapt to change and turn challenges into opportunities,” he said.

He congratulated the graduates on behalf of the Government of Rwanda, urging them to pursue their careers with courage, integrity and a commitment to excellence.

The University of Rwanda awarded 3,783 undergraduate degrees and 1,170 postgraduate qualifications and other advanced awards. The graduating class included 49 doctoral degree recipients.

The ceremony brought together government officials, university leaders, lecturers, parents and students. Those in attendance included Minister of Health Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana and the Minister of Education.

University Chancellor Patricia L. Campbell also challenged the graduates to persevere through difficulties and use their education to improve their lives and those of their communities.

“Graduation ceremonies are joyous occasions. They are a time to celebrate and reflect on achievements. They are also a time to look ahead to the future,” Campbell said.

She reminded the graduates that success rarely follows a smooth path, urging them to adapt to setbacks, reassess their goals and remain committed to their ambitions.

“There are always unexpected challenges. People need to regroup, revise their goals and perhaps even rebuild. But with continued perseverance over time, things can reach a higher level of success,” she said.

Campbell cited Rwanda’s experience as an example of resilience and determination, saying the country demonstrated how perseverance could lead to progress despite challenges.

“In the larger picture, I believe Rwanda is a very real and meaningful example of this. Rwanda, that is what people see in your country,” she said.

She further encouraged graduates to make the most of the opportunities available to them and remain committed to lifelong learning.

“I want you to remember that you must make the most of the opportunities you have, and challenge yourselves to remain committed to learning, using that knowledge to bring about change and sharing it with others,” Campbell said.

Drawing on the words of American poet Mary Oliver, the Chancellor challenged the graduates to reflect on how they intended to use their lives and abilities.

“What are you planning to do with your one wild and precious life?” she asked.

Campbell said graduates had the potential to contribute to the wellbeing of their families, communities and country, expressing confidence in their ability to help address challenges facing the world.

“You have the opportunity to contribute. You live in a country that supports development, and you have the ability to make your contribution,” she said.

Some graduates described the ceremony as a significant milestone for themselves and their families, expressing readiness to apply the knowledge and skills they had acquired to Rwanda’s development.

The ceremony marked another milestone for the University of Rwanda, with university leaders and government officials challenging the new graduates to turn their academic achievements into practical contributions to society.