It is with profound respect and deep admiration that I pay tribute to my esteemed colleague and dear friend, Ambassador Col (Rtd) Dr. Joseph Karemera. As a devoted public servant and a patriot, Dr. Karemera's contributions to the stability and the development of our country were nothing short of remarkable. ALSO READ: Karemera worked tirelessly to build Rwanda, says Kagame I had the honour of working closely with him, particularly when he became one of my successors in the Ministry of Education. His unwavering commitment to reforming and advancing the educational sector in Rwanda during the most challenging periods is a testament to his vision, resilience, and passion, for the growth and development of our nation. We navigated the complexities of developing a new curriculum that aimed to transform the lives of our young generation. As Minister of Education, Dr. Karemera’s dedication, intelligence, and collaborative spirit made him an exceptional visionary and leader. He was not only a mentor to many but also a beacon of hope, whose tireless efforts and strategic foresight laid the foundation for a modern and inclusive education system in Rwanda. His work has impacted countless lives and will continue to shape the minds of our future leaders for generations to come. Dr. Karemera’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements; he was a man of integrity, humility, and compassion. His devotion to serving the people of Rwanda, whether as a military officer, medical doctor, educator, ambassador, or lawmaker – as a senator, has left an indelible mark on our countryside. ALSO READ: An interview with Col (rtd) Dr Joseph Karemera I am honoured to have known and worked alongside such a remarkable personality. May his legacy continue to inspire all of us to strive for excellence and serve our country with the same dedication and honour that he exemplified throughout his life. The author is a former member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and Rwanda's former Prime Minister.