Mount Kigali University has unveiled its new alumni association, challenging members to become catalysts for societal transformation.

At the unveiling ceremony held at the Mount Kigali University campus, Vice-Chancellor Dr Martin Kimemia affirmed the university’s commitment to empowering students to contribute meaningfully to society. "For over a decade in Rwanda, we have nurtured thousands of students who are now alumni. Living in different parts of the world, they have achieved incredible success in various fields, making significant contributions to society and enhancing Mount Kigali University’s reputation as a top training institution,” he said.

Mount Kigali University (formerly Mount Kenya University Rwanda) welcomed its pioneer students on August 31, 2010, with an initial enrolment of 108 Master of Business Administration, 4 Bachelor of Commerce, and 3 Bachelor of Business Management students, totalling 115 students. Today, the university boasts over 9,000 registered students, over 10,000 alumni, and 1,077 students eligible for graduation on August 2, 2024.

Kimemia informed alumni present at the association launch that the university "celebrates your accomplishments and takes immense pride in your achievements.”

He added, "From pioneering research to leadership roles in industry and public service, your successes reflect the quality of education and the values instilled by our university.” He also highlighted the primary purpose of the committee; to strengthen the ties within the alumni community and outline the university’s vision for the future.

The association aims to harness the collective strength and expertise of its alumni worldwide to drive positive change and improve the lives of communities. Dr Kimemia noted, "The alumni association is not just a network; it is a vital component of the university’s ecosystem. Your involvement and support are crucial to our continued success. We aim to create a platform where alumni can connect, collaborate, and contribute to the university’s mission.”

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academics and Research Affairs, Dr Eugenia Nkechi Irechukwu, appreciated the impact the alumni have had on the community. "I thank you all for your multiple roles in society. Among our alumni are accountants, finance specialists, nurses, artists, scientists, actors, engineers, and teachers, all contributing significantly to the community with the skills acquired at this university. Thank you for making the years you spent at this institution truly worthwhile,” she said.

In collaboration with the Imbuto Foundation, Mount Kigali University trained one doctor, Dr Angelique Redempta Icyishaka. She is currently doing her internship at Karen Hospital and Chiromo Mental Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. In her message to the alumni coordinator, she congratulated the university on launching the association.

She said, "The alumni are one of the most important stakeholders and resources for their university. Mount Kigali University and Imbuto Foundation made me what I am today. This is a relationship that I will always cherish for a lifetime.

"I look forward to contributing to the growth of the university and transforming society, as well as providing corporate knowledge and networks, as well as industry trends as alumni.”

The president of the alumni committee, James Mugume, expressed his gratitude and emphasised the importance of the alumni community. "This day marks a special occasion for us to reconnect and celebrate the profound impact our education at Mount Kigali University has had on our lives and careers. The education we received has been instrumental in our growth, enabling many of us to become leaders and directors of impactful community initiatives.”

He added, "Today’s event is not just a reunion but also a celebration of our enduring bond as alumni. It provides a platform for us to network, reflect on our journeys, and explore new opportunities for collaboration.”

Mugume urged all the alumni to continue embodying the values of Mount Kigali University in all that they do. He added, "As change-makers, innovators, and leaders, we can achieve great things and contribute significantly to our communities.”

Irechukwu revealed that the university is in the process of starting several new academic programmes that will include PhDs.