Nursing graduate Aubin Byishimo has become the first Mount Kigali University’s German language programme student to secure a healthcare job in Austria. He will soon be joined by ten other students who are finalising their paperwork to pursue nursing careers in German-speaking countries, notably Germany and Austria.

These students are reaping the rewards of seizing the opportunity to study German. This was highlighted by Mount Kigali University Vice-Chancellor, Dr Martin Kimemia, who spoke when the institution bid farewell to Byishimo.

"It took resilience, dedication, and commitment for them to reach this milestone,” said Kimemia, lauding the effort by Byishimo and the other nursing graduates who chose to study German.

The VC explained: "As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘It always seems impossible until it’s done.’ When we partnered with the governments of Austria, Germany, and United Arab Emirates (UAE), our goal was to provide students with global opportunities free from geographical limitations or language barriers.”

Kimemia stressed the importance of mastering a foreign language, calling it a vital skill in today’s interconnected world.

"Communicating effectively in another language enables individuals to connect with diverse cultures and unlock international opportunities,” said the VC, adding: "We encourage our students to make the most of these initiatives and engage in educational and career-building activities. When you return, you will share the knowledge you have acquired with others, thereby enhancing social and economic development in your country.”

Kimemia urged students like Aubin to be exemplary ambassadors at their workplaces abroad, thereby paving the way for others. He also assured students that similar opportunities remain available for those ready to embrace adventurous career paths and learn new languages.

To unlock job opportunities abroad for its students, Mount Kigali University is collaborating with reputable international organisations like Austria’s Lebenshilfe Tirol. The partnership with this European organisation has opened doors for the university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) graduates to explore exciting career prospects in Austria, provided they meet specific conditions. The eligible graduates must have completed the BScN programme, completed a one-year internship, learned German, and obtained a valid nursing practice licence.

Byishimo thanked the university for fostering global collaborations.

"I am deeply thankful to Mount Kigali University and Mount Kenya University for forging partnerships that prepare us for international careers. These initiatives bridge the gap between academic excellence and real-world opportunities,” he said.

He added, "Embracing the chance to learn German has led me to an exciting career in Austria. This shows the transformative power of the university’s visionary efforts. I urge my fellow students to take advantage of such opportunities, invest in their growth, and prepare to succeed in competitive global job markets.”

Nicas Ntagwabira, Head of the School of Nursing, echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in the students’ adequate preparation for global careers. "We ensure our students are equipped with skills that allow them to work anywhere in the world. They should never let their careers be confined to local markets because of language barriers.”

Catherine Abuko, Language Coordinator at Mount Kigali University, urged students to make use of the facilities such as the state-of-the-art language laboratory that offers both German and English courses.

"It’s important to understand the power of language. It can take you far and open doors to advanced career opportunities. Proficiency in languages such as German gives you an edge when competing for job opportunities in those parts of the world, especially in fields like nursing, which is in high demand,” she said.

Abuko added: "The German language programme is progressing well, and if you represent us positively, as you have promised, it will pave the way for many more students to benefit from similar opportunities. Make us proud.”

Ever since Rwanda joined the Commonwealth in 2009, the country has been encouraging its citizens to learn English. Mount Kigali University is playing a significant role in training citizens in the language to help the country achieve its objectives. The university offers English courses at all levels and continues to invest in state-of-the-art facilities while forging relationships with reputable organisations to promote the language. With German also widely spoken and key to job opportunities, the university has found it vital to equip students with the skills needed to secure jobs abroad and gain hands-on experience.