More than 2,000 students have graduated from Kibogora Polytechnic in Nyamasheke district, marking the institution’s 11th graduation ceremony and reaffirming its growing role in the country’s higher education landscape.
The graduates completed their studies across various faculties, as the leadership of the free methodist church in Rwanda -owner of the university announced plans to further expand the institution’s academic reach and infrastructure.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Claude Ishimwe pledged that the alumni would apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their studies to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“We are committed to becoming exemplary teachers, compassionate healthcare professionals, and outstanding managers,” Ishimwe said, underscoring the graduates’ readiness to serve society with professionalism and integrity.
The vice chancellor of Kibogora Polytechnic, Dr. Daria Mukamusoni, reminded graduates that education is a lifelong journey, urging them to continue upgrading their skills in an increasingly competitive and dynamic job market.
“Graduation does not mean the end of learning,” Dr. Mukamusoni emphasized. “In fact, it is the beginning. Life itself is a continuous learning process whether in school or in the workplace. We award you diplomas today, but we also encourage you to pursue further knowledge to become truly competent professionals.
”The bishop of the free methodist church in Rwanda (EMLR), Bishop Samuel Kayinamura, expressed satisfaction with the university’s progress, describing it as a strong pillar within the church’s broader mission and vision.
“As the free methodist church, we are proud of how far Kibogora Polytechnic has come,” Bishop Kayinamura said.
“Education is one of the five foundational pillars of our mission, alongside evangelism, health, social welfare, care for the vulnerable, and overall development. The achievements of this university show that we are fulfilling this mission effectively.
”Looking ahead, Kibogora Polytechnic University plans to introduce master’s degree programmes in various disciplines, following the recent opening of a new campus in Rusizi District. University management confirmed that accreditation procedures are already underway.“We are in the process of securing the necessary approvals, and by around September, we expect to launch several masters programmes,” Dr. Mukamusoni revealed.
“These will include theology, BDS, MBA, education, and health sciences.”This year’s graduating class comprised 2,356 Rwandan students, along with one Nigerian and one South Sudanese student, drawn from four faculties. With this cohort, the university has now produced more than 9,000 graduates since its establishment.
