Monsignor Philippe Rukamba, the bishop of Butare Diocese and chancellor of Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR) has urged graduates to engage in fighting problems that slow down social transformation and development.

"I implore you all to use your skills to fight for society transformation by instilling good social and moral values through educating citizens on how to overcome hindrances including poverty and gender-based violence, among others.

"As the young generation, you are the catalysts who will equip the other citizens with knowledge to better meet their fundamental needs and improve their living conditions,” he said.

The cleric made the call during the graduation ceremony of 375 students at the university’s Alexis Kagame campus located in Gisagara District in Southern Province last week.

The graduates obtained advanced diplomas in various academic programmes including public health and human nutrition, social work, commerce and education, science and technology, and religious sciences. Sixty-eight per cent of the graduates were females.

Monsignor Jean-Marie Vianney Gahizi, the rector of the university, reminded the graduates that the country’s development depends on the youth.

"Don’t cultivate the spirit of laziness as youth are guarantors of the country’s future. Hence, you should strive to become competent in all aspects to bring about better changes,” he said.

Monsignor Gahizi explained that earning a diploma means that a student has learnt certain skills, but noted that putting them into practice for a better life is another task altogether.

Redeodatus Ntawisiga, who scooped a first class diploma in catechism and religious science, urged graduates to use the acquired skills to change the mindsets of society for better.

The graduation ceremony was graced by different officials, including Senator Cyrysologue Karangwa; Senator Prof. Laurent Nkusi; Jerome Rutabingwa, the mayor of Gisagara District; Eugene Kayiranga Muzuka, the mayor of Huye District; and rectors from different academic institutions.