University of Rwanda celebrated its 10th graduation ceremony at Huye Campus Stadium, honouring a cohort of over 8,000 graduates, on October 25.
The event recognized the hard work and dedication of 8,068 students, 3,109 women and 4,959 men, as they received degrees ranging from diplomas to PhDs.
Among the graduates, 6,657 earned bachelor’s degrees, 946 master’s degrees, and 148 diplomas, along with 247 advanced diplomas, three postgraduate diplomas, one postgraduate certificate, and 13 subspecialty certificates.
Among graduates, 38 (12 PhDs and 26 Masters) were trained at the African Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things, in both Embedded computing Systems and Wireless Sensor networking programs.
The ceremony was attended by high-level government officials, reflecting the significance of this milestone in the nation's commitment to education and development.
Prime Minister Rt.Hon. Dr. Edouard Ngirente urged graduates to make a meaningful impact that will positively transform lives in the communities. He emphasized the need to uphold values of patriotism and integrity, thinking big, seeking innovative development solutions and undertaking impactful projects that benefit both graduates and the country.
"You should always remember that the positive transformation of the country begins with you. I encourage you to save all the opportunities the country offers you. Remember that your success is linked with the development of our nation, he noted.
Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana, commended the new graduates for reaching this significant milestone in their academic journey. He emphasized the critical role that University of Rwanda plays in shaping the future of the nation and beyond.
"Today, we celebrate not only your achievements but also the potential you hold to drive sustainable and inclusive development, and as you step into this new chapter, you join a distinguished legacy of alumni who are making impactful contributions across various sectors; we count on you too,” he said.
Nsengimana highlighted that the university serves as more than just a place of learning; it is a dynamic incubator for talent, leadership, and innovation.
The Vice Chancellor of University of Rwanda, Didas Kayihura Muganga, commended the graduates on their achievement, urging them to carry the spirit of University of Rwanda with them, embracing the challenges and seeking opportunities for growth.
"Remember that education is not just about personal advancement; it is about uplifting others and contributing to the greater good. I want to also remind you of the importance of humility in your future endeavours," he said.
He added that "your journey has not only equipped you with knowledge but also with values that will guide you as you step into the world.”
Professor Damien Hanyurwimfura, Director of the African Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things (ACEIoT) congratulated the graduates for their hard work and dedication, emphasizing the importance of IoT in sectors such as agriculture, energy, health, climate change, and transportation.
"We hope for ongoing assistance to help us contribute more effectively to Rwandan education and to address market needs in Rwanda and beyond,” he said.
Hanyurwimfura encouraged graduates to take on important roles following their studies. He urged them to utilize their skills to provide solutions not only in Rwanda but across the African continent.
"I urge you to apply the skills and knowledge you have gained from the center to provide IoT solutions that address African challenges, transfer your knowledge and skills to others, and become ambassadors of the center by sharing your experiences and journeys. By doing so, you will motivate other interested applicants to join ACEIoT and benefit from what we offer.”
Prof. Damien Hanyurwimfura congratulated Mr Arthur Mwang’onda , a Malawian Msc graduate in Internet of Things: Embedded Computing systems who has been awarded as the best performer at the College of Science and Technology(CST). This shows how the center provides all necessary facilities and support to allow the students perform well in their studies.
Theofrida Julius Maginga, a Tanzanian PhD graduate in Internet of Things with a focus on embedded computing systems, expressed her gratitude for the opportunities provided by the African Center of Excellence in IoT.
"Today marks the culmination of our hard work, and we are eager to give back to our communities by sharing the skills we've gained at the IoT center. We believe these solutions will benefit individuals in Rwanda, Tanzania, and beyond.”
She highlighted the valuable skills acquired, particularly in developing affordable and accessible IoT devices for sectors such as agriculture and health. Addressing the challenges she faced during her studies, Maginga acknowledged that difficulties are part of the learning process.
"While we encountered challenges that required resources and time, the teamwork at the African Center of Excellence made the experience enriching. I look forward to applying these skills in future collaborations.”
She emphasized the importance of integrating their research into everyday societal systems, stating.
She said: "The way forward is to ensure that our solutions are adopted within formal systems, especially through partnerships with governments and communities.”
Theofrida is among 4 PhD graduates who have been sponsored by the Regional Scholarship Innovation funds(RSIF) , a flagship of Partnership for skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology (PASET) managed by International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE).