Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Joseph Nsegimana, has urged university graduates to use their knowledge and skills to solve societal challenges, create jobs and contribute to national development rather than focusing solely on finding employment.
He made the remarks on Friday, October 23, 2026, during a graduation ceremony at the University of Rwanda’s Rukara campus in Kayonza District, where 4,953 students graduated from various programmes.
Nsegimana said a degree was an important milestone, but its true value would be measured by how graduates applied their knowledge to improve people’s lives.
“Your degree is an important step, but its true value will be reflected in how you use the knowledge and skills you have acquired. What problem will you help solve? What opportunities will you create? What service will you improve?” he asked.
He noted that Rwanda and Africa still face numerous challenges but also offer opportunities for young people to develop solutions and contribute to economic growth.
These opportunities include creating jobs, improving education and healthcare, modernising agriculture, expanding industries and accelerating technological development.
The minister encouraged graduates to change their mindset by looking beyond the question of where to find employment and considering the value they could create for society.
“I encourage you to look beyond the question, ‘Where will I find a job?’ Instead, ask yourselves, ‘What value can I create? What problem can I help solve? How can I contribute to Rwanda’s development?’” he said.
Nsegimana acknowledged that expanding employment opportunities for young people remained important but stressed the need to prepare graduates to become entrepreneurs who could also employ others.
He reminded the graduates that their education was not merely a personal benefit but an investment by the country, which expected them to contribute to its future.
“The country invested in your education because it believes in your potential and the contribution you can make to building our future,” he said.
Graduates urged to persevere
University of Rwanda Chancellor Patricia L. Campbell urged graduates not to give up when faced with challenges, noting that success rarely follows a straightforward path.
She cited Rwanda as an example of how perseverance and determination can lead to progress and new opportunities.
“No one’s journey is easy; there are always unexpected challenges. You need to reflect, revise your goals and rebuild yourself, but with perseverance over time, you can achieve success,” Campbell said.
She encouraged graduates to take advantage of opportunities in Rwanda and challenged them to consider how they would use their lives and the opportunities available to them.
“What do you plan to do with this one precious life you have?” she asked.
Of the 4,953 graduates, 1,917 were women and 3,036 were men.
The graduates included 3,480 Bachelor’s degree recipients, 302 Advanced Diploma holders, 1,086 Master’s degree graduates and 49 PhD recipients.
The ceremony took place at the University of Rwanda’s Rukara campus in Kayonza District.
