Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva has called on graduates of the University of Rwanda (UR) to view their graduation not as an end, but as the start of a lifelong journey of hard work, innovation, and service to the nation.
He delivered the message on Friday, October 17, 2025, during the university’s colorful graduation ceremony held at the UR Stadium in Huye District, where 9,529 students from seven colleges received their degrees.
“This milestone you’ve reached is not the end, but the beginning,” Nsengiyumva said. “The road ahead will bring challenges, but it will also open new opportunities. Work hard, think critically, and avoid shortcuts. Change happens when people take action.”
The prime minister emphasized that the graduates are key to Rwanda’s transformation into a knowledge-driven economy, one that thrives on creativity and innovation to improve citizens’ livelihoods.
“You are the strength of this nation,” he said. “Use the education you received from the University of Rwanda to protect the progress we have made and to build on it for the future.”
Dr. Nsengiyumva urged the new graduates to embody Rwandan values of patriotism, integrity, and discipline in their careers and daily lives, noting that these virtues would guide them toward success.
“Be young people who love your country and value hard work,” he said. “Avoid habits that could destroy your future, such as laziness, drunkenness, or immoral behavior.”
Prof. Didas Kayihura Muganga, vice chancellor of the University of Rwanda, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to embrace emerging technologies—especially artificial intelligence (AI)—to stay competitive in the rapidly changing global job market.
“We applaud your determination and sacrifices,” he said. “The world is moving fast, and digital technologies like AI will be key to navigating future challenges.”
Prof. Muganga also thanked parents for their commitment and reminded graduates that the university will always be their academic home, urging them to serve as ambassadors for both UR and Rwanda.
Calleb Mitari, speaking on behalf of the graduates, expressed gratitude to the government, lecturers, and families for their support, promising that the class of 2025 would honor their faith by contributing to Rwanda’s development.
“We will not disappoint those who supported us,” Mitari said. “We are committed to innovation and excellence, both nationally and internationally.”
Among the 9,529 graduates, 8,462 completed undergraduate programs, 697 earned master’s degrees, and 35 received PhDs.
Nsengiyumva reminded them that a degree alone is not enough, urging them to stay disciplined and forward-looking as they enter the workforce.
“What you do from here will define Rwanda’s future,” he said. “Our vision is clear—a nation built on knowledge—and you are its cornerstone.”
