2,359 Graduates Pledge to Contribute to National Development

On January 23, 2026, celebrations filled Kibogora Polytechnic in Kanjongo sector, Nyamasheke district, as 2,359 students graduated in the fields of Health Sciences, Education, Business Studies and Theology. The graduates pledged to contribute to the country’s development.

Dr. Dariya Mukamusoni, the university’s Vice Chancellor, celebrated the milestone and noted that since its establishment in 2012, Kibogora Polytechnic has proven how much it was needed. Students now come from different parts of Rwanda and neighboring countries, whereas in the past many from the Western Province had to travel elsewhere to seek higher education.

She congratulated the graduates for their hard work and reminded them that learning never ends, urging them to aim far and actively contribute to national development.

The Vice Chancellor promised the introduction of postgraduate programs and a Medical School.

She said: “Do not think you have finished. This is just the beginning. Life itself is learning. We give you degrees as graduates but we also remind you that the learning journey is long. Aim far and support the development this country expects of you.”

She thanked university staff for their dedication and the crucial role they have played in building the institution’s reputation among Rwanda’s universities. She also thanked the EMLR Church — the founding body — and its partners, and especially President Paul Kagame for supporting education and recognizing the need for a university in this region.

She explained that to strengthen the institution further, Kibogora Polytechnic plans to start postgraduate studies this year and to establish a Medical School that will attract students from across Rwanda and Africa.

Bishop Samuel Kayinamura, head of the EMLR Church worldwide, expressed satisfaction that the founding mission of the university had been fulfilled.

Praise for President Kagame was also echoed by the University Chancellor, Ian Higginbotham, who celebrated the large number of graduates and told them they now have the knowledge and capacity to change the world.

He said: “You are expected to make visible changes with the knowledge you have received. This is the beginning. Continue to learn things that will enrich your lives.”

Speaking about President Kagame, he added: “We appreciate the President for recognizing that strong education leads to a better life, and that nothing comes easily—everything must be earned. Contribute to building this nation with the knowledge you have acquired.”

Parents also expressed gratitude for the university and for the President’s support.

Parent Nyiramfikije Philomène thanked President Kagame for giving the region a university where their children can study without having to leave the country, noting that previous generations lacked such opportunities.

Graduates also expressed their readiness to contribute to national development.

Nyiragakuru Gaudance, a Nursing graduate, said that although she has already worked five years at Kibogora Hospital, the knowledge gained will help her improve patient care, adding that health is foundational to personal and national development.

Ngendakumana Philemon, a Cooperative Development graduate, emphasized the importance of cooperatives in sustainable development and promised to help communities understand their value and manage them well.

Irambona Jonathan, an Education graduate, said that knowledge is the key to prosperity, and that after 12 years teaching in primary school, this degree will help him achieve his dream of becoming an exemplary educator.

Rusizi District Mayor, Sindayiheba Phanuel, who presided over the event, said that the performance of Kibogora Polytechnic and its graduates on the job market shows Rwanda’s commitment to expanding quality education beyond major cities, and into rural areas.

He emphasized that true value of education lies in solving real-life challenges affecting citizens’ wellbeing, especially in fields such as education, health, development, and theology, all of which the university offers.

He encouraged graduates to apply their skills practically to improve livelihoods and address ongoing development issues.

Chancellor Higginbotham again thanked President Kagame for investing in education, making such achievements possible.

Kibogora Polytechnic is owned by the EMLR Church. It was founded in 2012 and graduated its first cohort in 2015. To date (11th graduation), it has awarded qualifications to 10,073 students. It has expanded to Rusizi town, and is preparing to launch postgraduate programs and a Medical School.

Bishop Kayinamura said the university’s founding objectives have been successfully achieved, as it has addressed the serious problem of students from the Western Province having to seek higher education abroad, often facing insecurity and other challenges. Now the region attracts students from across the country and beyond.

Graduates and leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Kibogora Polytechnic and building a university that contributes to Rwanda and the wider world.