A total of 1,088 students yesterday graduated with degrees in various disciplines from the University of Rwanda’s College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine.

Dr Geraldine Mukeshimana, the minister for agriculture, who presided over the graduation ceremony, urged the college researchers to play a big role in key development areas of the agriculture sector, the biggest employer.

"Make sure that your research findings are shared and disseminated to widely bring sustainable solutions to the country’s agricultural challenges instead of being kept on library shelves,” the minister said.

Prof. James McWha, the vice-chancellor, congratulated the graduates and advised them to always stick to their goals.

"I am proud of the way you have helped build what is rapidly becoming one of Africa’s leading universities. A university becomes respected because of the achievements and quality of its graduates. Go and shine in the next phase of your lives,” he said.

Dr Laetitia Nyinawamwiza, the college principal, spoke of her pride in the graduates and urged them to work hard, saying the country awaits their input.

"We are united today by a shared sense of pride in achievement. However, be hard working as you used to be as Rwanda is waiting for your talents,” she said.

The graduates included students from the School of Agriculture, Rural Development and Agricultural Economics, School of Agricultural Engineering and Environmental Management, the School of Food Science and Technology as well as the School of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine.

Germaine Kayisire, the students representative, called on her fellow fresh graduates to be exemplary and committed to their professions, adding that anything is possible with commitment.

"This graduation shows us how capable we are by accomplishing our goals when we work together,” she said.

The jubilant graduates promised to use their skills to contribute to the country’s development.

"We hope to put into practice the skills we acquired to help improve agricultural techniques as the country waits for our contribution to national development,” said Abel Byiringiro, another graduate.

"Putting aside the chance of getting a job, I plan to design a project with a little bit of support. No need not depend on others too much now,” Leontine Musabyeyezu, a graduate, said.

The best performing graduates were rewarded different prizes, including laptops and cash.

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