By Olive Tuyishime
On July 31, 2026, graduates of the 8th cohort at Muhabura Integrated Polytechnic College (MIPC) were urged to appreciate the time they spent pursuing their studies and to make the most of the knowledge and skills they acquired.
The university leadership reminded graduates that the years they spent in school were their greatest investment and encouraged them to use the education they received to create a positive impact on society.
MANZI Innocent, the Acting Principal of MIPC, encouraged the graduates to remain committed to their personal growth while contributing to Rwanda’s national development.
He said “As you complete your studies and take this important step in your lives, I encourage you to continue striving for greater achievements. Your contribution to your own development and that of the country is essential. You are the generation expected to transform Rwandan society by upholding Rwandan values such as integrity, good conduct, and respect. These values will complement the knowledge you have gained here and enable you to play a meaningful role in building our nation. Rwanda needs people who are both competent and of exemplary character.”
The Acting Bishop of the Diocese of Shyira, Bishop Augustin Ahimana, emphasized that the years the graduates spent at the institution were a valuable investment. He noted that, besides academic knowledge, they had received guidance, counseling, and moral values that they should treasure.
He said:”My advice is to value the time you have spent here. The Bible teaches that humility brings rewards, wealth, honor, and life (Proverbs 22:4). The years you have spent here are an investment, just as someone invests money expecting future returns. Do not waste the time you invested, the knowledge you acquired, the guidance you received, or the testimonies you heard. Remember that your country expects a great deal from you because your families, parents, siblings, and spouses sacrificed so much to enable you to reach this milestone.”
He further urged the graduates to make sacrifices for the benefit of the country, just as others had sacrificed for them.”Our country expects something from you in return. You should be willing to contribute to your own development and to the development of Rwanda. As we have discussed today, many people waste the opportunities they are given, especially by engaging in harmful behaviors. Today is a day of celebration, and you will attend celebrations. Celebrating is good and important, but it should not come at the expense of your health and future. Celebrate responsibly. Avoid excessive drinking and behaviors that could damage your lives and your bodies.”
The Higher Education Council (HEC) was represented at the ceremony by Bukeye Mukashema Mireille, who commended MIPC for offering technology-oriented academic programs. She described the graduation ceremony as a day of pride and joy for parents who had invested in their children’s education and encouraged graduates to put their knowledge into practice.
She said “This is a day of joy and pride for the parents who sacrificed to educate their children. Their efforts have not only benefited their families but have also contributed to the country’s development because these graduates will now use their knowledge to build Rwanda. We encourage you not to undervalue the education you received at MIPC. Instead, make the most of it, especially since your programs are technology-based. Be innovative and use your skills to contribute to the country’s development.”
Some of the graduates said they were determined to apply the knowledge and skills they had gained and to become role models in their communities.
One of them, Habarurema Vianne, a 44-year-old graduate who completed a Bachelor’s degree in Construction and Building Technology, said He had completed secondary school in 2006 but later decided to continue his education to strengthen his professional skills and better serve society.
He explained “In the construction sector, many people work without formal training. As a result, some simply imitate what others do without fully understanding engineering standards, leading to buildings that fail to meet quality requirements or even collapse. That is why I decided to continue my studies, so that I could gain the necessary expertise to construct safe, high-quality buildings.”
A total of 226 students graduated in the institution’s 8th graduation ceremony. They completed programs in Construction and Building Technology, Electrical Technology, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Hospitality Management, and Tourism and Travel Management.
