A total of 1,428 students graduated from University of Kigali during its eighth graduation ceremony held at Intare Arena in Kigali on May 31, 2024. The Private University with 17 masters and 11 undergraduate diploma programs got its accreditation in 2013. The graduation ceremony was attended by many participants including students, parents, guardians, and officials. Among the graduates, 54 percent were females and 46 percent males. The graduates got honors for their Bachelor's and master's. The majority of graduates were in the School of Business and Economics in the Kigali and Musanze campuses, respectively. University of Kigali's 8th graduation ceremony theme was building a resilient and inclusive future. This theme was selected for numerous reasons, one being that the majority of the students enrolled during Covid-19 pandemic and their resilience helped them pursue their education and eventually graduate. In his welcome speech, Prof. Danson Musyoki, the Vice Chancellor of University of Kigali, commended the graduates for their resilience and inclusivity emphasizing on this day being their first day in their new chapter and that their ability to adapt and support each other has been very crucial. He said: “Without doubt, the last three years, or less, in some cases, have tested our hope in these collaborative efforts. “Our survival is a testament to our commitment to building a resilient and inclusive future, reflecting on the unique experiences we have shared.” Prof. Musyoki highlighted the importance of the graduation ceremony, emphasizing that it marks the graduates' transition into a new chapter of life where they will continue to build connections and pursue excellence in their future endeavors. Mr. Philibert Afrika, chairman of the University Governing Body, praised the graduates in his address for their perseverance and determination. He expressed his confidence that they will become well-functioning, informed, and responsible individuals that society needs. He added, We look up to you, graduates, to carry the legacy of resilience and inclusion, with the hope that you will shape the world into an accommodating habitat where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. The chairman of the Board of Promoters, Prof Nshuti Manasseh, thanked the graduates and highlighted the government's aggressive efforts to integrate education with labor market demands. “I'd like to thank the parents for believing in us to educate their children, and I'd want to remind you graduates that education doesn't stop there. Those who have completed bachelor's degrees must pursue master's degrees, and those who have completed master's degrees must also pursue a PhD,” he added. Prof. Nshuti reminded the graduates that education is the only thing that can transform an individual and make them relevant in society, and that they must create their own future. Jerry Junior Mutoni, a graduate who spoke on behalf of her colleagues, believes that the graduation ceremony's theme is a reflection of their journey and a call to action. As we move forward, let us commit to fostering inclusivity in all aspects of our lives. Let us build communities where everyone feels valued and empowered. In our professional life, let us thrive to be leaders who advocate for diversity and inclusion,” Mutoni added. Mbabazi Grace, a parent whose son graduated in law, was overjoyed with the path her son chose and the fact that he had made the entire family proud. She believed that her son would positively contribute to society. During the graduation ceremony, University of Kigali recognized top achievers for their excellent achievements, emphasizing its dedication to assist them in their journey of social and economic transformation.
