The event, held at the Intare Conference Arena in Rusororo, was attended by dignitaries including the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, along with university leadership, faculty, parents, and invited guests.
This year's cohort included 486 master's degree recipients, 38 postgraduate diploma holders, 1,129 bachelor's degree graduates and students from the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) program received professional certificates.
The university also recognized students who completed certificate programs through its Center for Equity and Inclusiveness, an initiative promoting skills, diversity, and inclusion within and beyond the campus.
In his address, UoK Chancellor Dr. Carlos Fernando Sotz commended the graduates for their resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence. He highlighted their ability to turn challenges into opportunities.
'You have demonstrated that being an overcomer is not about having a smooth path, but about the ability to rise, adapt, and thrive despite the hurdles. You have done exactly that. Your journey has required not only intelligence and dedication, but also resilience, emotional strength, and vision,' he stated.
Dr. Sotz reaffirmed the university's commitment to academic excellence, research, innovation, and holistic student development, urging graduates to uphold these values, use their knowledge to solve problems, and make a positive impact in their communities.
Minister Murangwa congratulated the graduates, stressing that the challenges they will face in their careers should be seen as opportunities to grow and excel.
'The world you are stepping into is full of complexity, but also full of opportunity. Climate change, inequality, technological disruption, economic volatilityâ€"these are among the many challenges that define our era,' he noted.
'Every challenge is a door waiting to be opened by someone like you, an overcomer. Whatever path you choose, pursue it with passion and integrity. Build networks. Learn continuously. Listen deeply. And never underestimate the influence you can have, no matter where you begin,' the minister added.
Chairman of the Board of Promoters, Professor Nshuti Manasseh, urged graduates to acquire knowledge that would enable them to make a meaningful impact on society.
'Be fearless in your pursuit of purpose. Be authentic in your relationships. Stay curious. Remain grounded. And always remember: success is not just about what you gain, but about what you give back,' he advised.
'Whether you become policymakers, entrepreneurs, researchers, educators, or innovators, the world will measure your greatness not only by your achievements but by the lives you touch and the legacies you build,' added Prof. Nshuti.
Chairman of the Governing Board at the University of Kigali, Philibert Afrika, highlighted key pillars that will shape the strategic direction of the university in securing a future-ready institution.
These pillars include sustainability leadership, innovation in teaching and learning, deeper global partnerships, and a focus on staff development and financial sustainability, all of which are expected to guide UoK's growth in the next chapter.
'In line with our Green Campus ambition, we are integrating environmentally friendly infrastructure, promoting digital innovation, and fostering a culture of ecological responsibility, positioning the University of Kigali as a model for sustainable higher education in Rwanda and beyond,' Afrika said.
Since its inception in 2013 with just 35 students, the University of Kigali has experienced remarkable growth, now boasting a vibrant community of over 8,000.
The latest cohort includes 1,653 graduates, comprising 807 males (49%) and 846 females (51%).
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/university-of-kigali-graduates-over-1-600-students
