University of Rwanda Celebrates 4,953 Graduates at 12th Graduation

The University of Rwanda (UR) graduated 4,953 students during its 12th graduation ceremony held on October 23, 2026, at Rukara Campus in Kayonza District.
Of the 4,953 graduates, 3,783 completed undergraduate programmes, while 1,170 completed postgraduate studies. The postgraduate group included 1,086 master’s graduates and 49 PhD graduates.
The ceremony brought together university leaders, government officials and other guests to celebrate the graduates’ academic achievements.
Speaking at the ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Kayihura Muganga Didas, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Rwanda, encouraged graduates to become good ambassadors of the university wherever they go.
“Dear graduates, as you step out into the world remember that you carry the proud name and legacy of University of Rwanda.”
He also urged graduates to use their knowledge to find solutions to real-life problems and bring new ideas to their communities.
“I challenge you today to turn your learning into actionable solution bring innovation to your communities and yielding honesty to your jobs and strength to develop our nation,” he emphasized.
He added that graduates should continue learning and developing new skills to remain relevant in a world that is changing quickly because of technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
Patricia L. Campbell, Chancellor of the University of Rwanda, also encouraged graduates to make good use of their opportunities, continue learning and use their knowledge to improve the lives of their families, communities and country.
“You have opportunity, you live in environment that supports growth and you have ability to contribute,” she said.
The Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana, who attended the ceremony as the guest of honour, highlighted some of the challenges and opportunities Rwanda faces, including job creation, healthcare, agricultural modernisation and digital transformation.
He said graduates have an important role to play in addressing these challenges, beyond the academic qualifications they have earned.
“Meeting these needs requires critical thinking, creativity, integrity and ability to turn knowledge into practical solutions. This is where you come in.” He said
The minister added that earning a degree is an important achievement, but its real value depends on how graduates use the knowledge they have gained, the value they add to society and the challenges they help solve.
The 12th graduation ceremony marked an important step for the graduates as they prepare to use their knowledge and skills in the workplace, their communities and other areas of national development.