KIGALI-University students pursuing their studies outside the country have been urged to put national interests first in whatever they do.

The call was made yesterday by the Minister of Education, Pierre Damien Habumuremyi, while meeting a group of about 100 students.

The students included those already studying abroad and those preparing to go there under the presidential scholarship program.

"Go and seek knowledge, not for your own sake, but for your country. Put the interests of Rwanda above your personal interests and strive to develop the country,” said Habumuremyi.

The Minister said that reports from some of the universities indicate that Rwandan students abroad are well behaved, urging the students to continue upholding the country’s positive image.

"You have to be goodwill ambassadors. Promote our country through informing the people around you what is going on in the country,” said Habumuremyi, adding that they have a role to play in keeping detractors at bay.

Reiterating the minister’s call, the Vice Chairman of Itorero ry’ igihugu, William Ntidendereza, told the students to always take pride in their country and to behave in a way that values them.

Ntidendereza informed the students that they would attend a solidarity camp running from July 17 to 30 before commencing their studies abroad.
The Presidential Scholarship Program was initiated in 2006 by President Paul Kagame to provide opportunities for talented youth to pursue higher education in various universities in the United States.
Oklahoma Christian University was the first university to start a partnership with the government under the program. Since then, several other universities in the US and beyond have come on board.

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