KIGALI - The parliamentary representative of private universities, Senator Rwigamba Balinda, has called on Rwandans of all ages to show determination in the acquisition of academic skills. Speaking at a ceremony held at Kigali Independent University (ULK) this week, the Senator told participants that education is not exclusively for the young.

Senator Rwigamba, who is also the chancellor and founder of ULK, commended Etienne Gakwaya who is set to graduate at the age of 72.

Gakwaya, an independent civil lawyer, left school in 1978 due to financial constraints, but did not give up.

"I left school before completing university, but I always felt in my heart that I should go back. I could always feel guilty for not acquiring my degree which I now see on my top fingers,” he said.

Gakwaya will graduate with a degree in law, in the next year’s graduation ceremony at Kigali Independent University (ULK).  "This should set a good example to his age mates who do not complete their studies, not because of financial crisis, but saying they are old to go back to school. They should not let their chances pass by,” Rwigamba said.
What matters was not age but determination, the Senator stressed. 
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