Rwanda’s Education Minister Joseph Nsengimana has urged University of Rwanda graduates to use their knowledge and skills to create opportunities, solve problems, and contribute to national development.
Speaking on October 23, 2026, during the university’s graduation ceremony at the Rukara campus, Nsengimana congratulated nearly 5,000 graduates on reaching this important milestone.
“This is a day of achievement, pride and hope. It celebrates years of hard work, discipline and sacrifice,” he said.
The minister also emphasized the university’s responsibility to serve communities across the country, highlighting its contribution to Rwanda’s development.
“The University of Rwanda belongs to the whole nation and must serve communities in every part of the country,” he said.
In this regard, Nsengimana highlighted the university’s role in advancing quality education, conducting relevant research and developing solutions that support Rwanda’s development. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between the institution and surrounding communities through effective teaching practices and improved learning outcomes.
Turning to graduates’ career prospects, the minister encouraged them to look beyond seeking employment and consider how they could create opportunities for themselves and others.
“I encourage you to look beyond the question, ‘Where will I find my job?’ and ask yourselves, ‘What value can I create? What challenge can I help solve? How can I contribute to Rwandan development?’” he said.
He noted that Rwanda and Africa need skilled professionals who can advance education, healthcare, agriculture, industry and digital transformation. To contribute to these sectors, he urged graduates to combine their academic qualifications with critical thinking, creativity and the ability to turn knowledge into practical solutions.
Furthermore, Nsengimana encouraged graduates to embrace emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, as they continue to transform workplaces and create new professional opportunities.
“Your degree is an important achievement, but its true value will be demonstrated by what you do with the knowledge and skills you have acquired,” he said.
The minister described education as both a personal achievement and an investment in Rwanda’s future, emphasizing the role graduates can play in advancing the country’s development ambitions.
“Rwanda has invested in you, in your education, because we believe in your potential and in the contribution you can make to our future,” he said.
He encouraged graduates to apply their knowledge in their respective professions, create jobs, improve public services and contribute to their communities.
At the same time, Nsengimana reminded graduates that building successful careers requires patience, commitment and continuous learning. He encouraged them to remain determined even when their first job opportunities or professional experiences do not meet their expectations.
“Your first job does not define your entire career. Your first setback does not determine your future,” he said.
The minister also highlighted the importance of integrity and service, noting that success should be measured not only by professional achievements but also by how many people benefit from one’s work.
“Rwanda’s future will be shaped by the knowledge we acquire, the ideas we develop, the work we do, and the values we uphold,” he said.
