Overview of the University of Rwanda’s 11th Graduation Ceremony
The University of Rwanda held its 11th graduation ceremony on Friday, October 17, 2025, celebrating a total of 9,526 graduates. Among them, 4,204 were female and 5,322 were male. These graduates come from various colleges across the university, each contributing to the academic and professional landscape of the country.
Breakdown by College
-
College of Education (CE): This college contributed 2,432 undergraduates, with 1,289 males and 1,143 females. The School of Education awarded 2,085 Bachelor’s degrees from 27 programs, while the School of Inclusive and Special Needs Education awarded 297 graduates from four programs.
-
College of Science and Technology (CST): CST had 1,495 graduates who earned Bachelor’s degrees, with 967 males and 528 females. Additionally, 193 postgraduates were recognized, including 150 males and 43 females. The School of Engineering had 414 graduates, while the School of Science had 484 graduates.
-
College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS): CASS reported 968 undergraduate candidates (652 males and 316 females) and 38 postgraduates (30 males and 8 females). The School of Arts and Languages had 275 graduates, while the School of Governance, Development and Society had 552 graduates.
-
College of Business and Economics (CBE): CBE celebrated 1,860 graduates (948 males and 912 females) who received Bachelor’s degrees. The School of Business had 1,223 graduates from nine programs, and the School of Economics had 637 graduates from six programs.
-
College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS): CMHS had 906 undergraduates (577 males and 329 females) and 230 postgraduates (115 males and 115 females). The School of Nursing and Midwifery had 211 graduates, while the School of Dentistry had 57 graduates.
-
College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine (CAVM): This college had 1,092 graduates who received Bachelor’s degrees. The College of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Science (CAFF) had 942 undergraduates and 39 postgraduates, while the College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (CIVAS) had 150 undergraduates and six postgraduates.
Celebrations and Reflections
Graduates, lecturers, and leaders gathered to celebrate the achievements of the new cohort. Caleb Mitari, a graduate representative, highlighted the significance of the day as a culmination of years of hard work. He emphasized the importance of becoming ethical and innovative citizens for the country’s future.
Clemence Niyitanga, a graduate in statistics, praised the university for preparing students with the necessary skills to succeed in the job market. Pauline Otambo, a pharmacist from Kenya, expressed gratitude for the support from the East African Community and the Government of Rwanda.
Professor Theoneste Ntakirutimana, a lecturer representative, urged graduates to be agents of change and contribute to national development through research and innovation.
Leadership Insights
University leadership also shared their reflections. Vice Chancellor Didas Kayihura Muganga encouraged graduates to embrace continuous learning and use technology responsibly. He highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in overcoming challenges.
Chancellor Patricia L. Campbell congratulated the graduates and emphasized the role of education in shaping meaningful lives. Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva commended the university’s contributions to national development and acknowledged the support from families and educators.
Conclusion
The 11th graduation ceremony at the University of Rwanda marked a significant milestone for the graduates and the institution. With a diverse range of programs and a strong focus on community and innovation, the university continues to play a vital role in shaping Rwanda’s future. As these graduates step into the next phase of their lives, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and aspirations to make a positive impact on their communities and the nation as a whole.
