First Lady Jeannette Kagame has commended Kepler College for its remarkable contribution to promoting inclusive education that embraces everyone, including refugees and persons with disabilities.
She made the remarks during the graduation ceremony for 293 students who completed their bachelor’s degrees — 43 from the Kigali campus and 250 from the Kiziba Refugee Camp campus in Karongi District.
Mrs. Kagame said that, as someone who grew up in exile, she was deeply moved by Kepler’s initiative to extend educational opportunities to refugees and other marginalized groups.
“I am truly impressed by Kepler’s inclusive education model. There are people who are often forgotten in the struggle for survival — refugees and people with disabilities among them. As someone born and raised in exile, I know what it means to live outside your country and miss opportunities others take for granted,” said the First Lady.
She went on to emphasize that education remains the foundation for a better future, recalling that Rwandan refugees once faced uncertainty and limited access to education — yet their challenges became a source of resilience and determination.
“What you have achieved today means far more than receiving degrees. It represents the fulfillment of a vision that every child deserves a chance to learn, regardless of their past or where they come from,” she added.
The First Lady praised Kepler College for its modern and practical curriculum designed to equip students with the skills the world needs in today’s job market.
“What Kepler has achieved is truly commendable. Its curriculum prepares graduates to collaborate, lead with integrity, and respond to global challenges. The fact that many graduates find employment within a year is proof of high-quality education,” Mrs. Kagame said.
She further reminded graduates that their education should empower them to think globally, innovate, and solve the world’s most pressing challenges. “You have the opportunity to be part of the solution our world needs. Use your education to create innovations, solve problems, and contribute positively to your societies,” she urged.
On his part, Minister of Education Dr. Joseph Nsengimana congratulated the graduates for their hard work and perseverance, saying their success reflects Rwanda’s commitment to providing quality and inclusive education.
“Our goal is to empower young Africans with the skills and knowledge to compete globally and tackle shared challenges. This graduation demonstrates that our education system delivers results and builds confidence for a brighter future,” said Dr. Nsengimana.
Kepler College, which gained full university accreditation in 2022, is holding its first graduation since becoming an independent institution. It offers degree programs in Project Management, Business Administration, and short-term professional courses aligned with market needs.
Graduates come from a range of African countries, including Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Eritrea, and Gabon.
Mrs. Kagame concluded by emphasizing that studying at Kepler is more than earning a degree — it is a journey of transformation and character-building. “You have been given more than academic knowledge. You have been taught to think critically, to speak with courage, and to lead with integrity. These are the values our world needs today more than ever,” she said.
