Even the living can be Heroes – Joe Habineza

SOUTHERN PROVINCE HUYE - On the eve of the celebrations to mark this year’s Heroes Day that falls on February 1, Sports and Culture Minister has said that one can also be a living Hero. Speaking to students at the National University of Rwanda on Thursday 29, Habineza said that a law establishing a commission that will be charged with identifying Heroes and the award of medals is before parliament. “Contrary to beliefs by many, one can be a living Hero. Such people will be awarded medals once the law establishing a commission charged with this task is passed by Parliament,” said Habineza. Habineza said that Rwandans should be driven by the five core values of; speed and respect of time, customer service mentality, quality delivery, and respect for national pride. “We need to have a self confident and respectful people. We should do away with low self esteem especially that now we have joined the East African Community. We should develop a spirit of competitiveness,” Habineza told the unusually attentive University community. The Minister told students and staff at NUR never to waver in standing out for the truth even if it hurts. “Never fear to point out the wrongs committed by your colleagues or leaders. They will respect you for your straightforwardness in the long run,” counselled the Minister. Dr Uzziel Ndagijimana, the Varsity’s Vice Rector in charge of Finance and Administration called upon students to reflect on their values and evaluate themselves at individual level. “These are values that can be evaluated at individual level. Upholding them is a continuous process that calls for regular evaluation,” said Ndagijimana. Ends