Make a difference, UR fresh science graduates challenged

The second day of a weeklong graduation at the University of Rwanda was marked with a call on graduate engineers to play a crucial role in the development of different infrastructure projects in the country. The Minister for Infrastructure, James Musoni, presided over the graduation of the university’s College of Science and Technology ceremony at Gikondo grounds, yesterday. Graduates celebrate after being awarded degrees at yesterdays ceremony. “We need well-trained engineers and scientists to play a crucial role in different infrastructure areas, including estate development, transport, water and mining, which are key to national economic development,” Musoni said. He encouraged the graduates to create own jobs, assuring them of government support. Minister for Infrastructure, James Musoni presided over the graduation ceremony for the Universitys College of Science and Technology. “Be job creators to make a difference in Africa; with a bit of support you will not fail. Our continent and our nation need committed and patriotic young engineers and scientists. You will not be alone, the government will support you.” Prof. Manasse Mbonye, the college principal, reminded graduates to prove themselves and focus on innovations. Innocent Munyaneza gives a speech on behalf of other graduates. “Go out and prove who you are and make us proud. You must apply all skills you acquired by focusing on innovations and creating your own jobs,” Prof. Mbonye said. A total of 1,374 students graduated with degrees and masters in various disciplines, while one attained a doctorate of philosophy (PhD) degree. Vice Chancellor McWHa dress Jean Pierre Bizimana with a hood to confer his PhD in Geography. Some 1,327 graduated with degrees, while 46 got masters, with the number of female science educationists still low at only 30 per cent of the total graduates. The representative of students, Innocent Munyaneza, commended parents and lecturers for being supportive during their studies. Vice Chancellor McWHa confers Jean Pierre Bizimana with PhD in Geography. “We thank our parents and lecturers for supporting us in the last four years during our studies,” Munyaneza said. “We are going to use the acquired skills to develop Africa, our future is bright as there are a lot of opportunities before us. What we as architects, engineers and scientists must do is to work as a group for a common cause and we appeal to government to support us.” Minister Musoni as the guest of honour asked the graduates to make a difference in their society. Several graduates who talked to The New Times said they look to the future with hope. “Basing on skills I acquired from the University, I don’t hope to be on the street. I’m going to use these skills to create my own job. The sky is the limit,” Boniface Nzeyimana said. Excited graduates after the Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda confers their degrees. (All photos by Doreen Umutesi) Fabien Muhirwa, another graduate, urged his fellow graduates to work hard and think of job creation instead of waiting for jobs from nowhere. “We must think of what to do with the knowledge acquired during our studies. I am sure we will attain our goals if we work together,” Muhirwa said. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Make a difference, UR fresh science graduates challenged