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Prof. Florien Nsanganwimana, Acting Principal of UR-CE, delivers his keynote address during the Kwibuka 31 commemoration ceremony at the University of Rwanda – Rukara Campus, emphasizing the role of education in fostering unity and preventing the recurrence of genocide.

The University of Rwanda – Rukara Campus marked the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi with a solemn ceremony that both honored the victims and called for active participation in sustaining peace, unity, and national development. Prof. Florien Nsanganwimana, the Acting Principal of UR-CE, delivered a powerful keynote address, emphasizing the crucial responsibility of education in rebuilding a nation free from genocide ideology.

"As a university, we are called upon to continually remember the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi—not as a passive reflection, but as a call to action—to strengthen our resolve and to ensure that genocide is never repeated, here or anywhere in the world," he said, urging the university community to take an active role in shaping the future.

Some of the invited guests, including Kayonza District Mayor Nyemazi Jean Bosco and Dr. Augustin Nshimiyimana representing IBUKA, light the Flame of Hope during the Kwibuka 31 commemoration at UR-Rukara Campus, symbolizing resilience and the nation’s continued journey toward unity and healing.

Prof. Nsanganwimana emphasized that the University of Rwanda views its youth not simply as students, but as a critical force for the country’s future. "We are not just educators ; we are also responsible for nurturing citizens who will safeguard the unity and integrity of our nation. Through education and the sharing of knowledge, we can empower our youth to lead with purpose and a deep understanding of our shared history," he remarked.

He outlined several practical avenues through which UR-CE can contribute to the fight against genocide ideology and the promotion of sustainable peace :
-Knowledge transfer and best practices : "There are many avenues for achieving this, notably through the sharing of research, teaching methods, and community outreach."
– Public talks and testimonies : "We could host discussions on diverse themes, share survivors’ testimonies, and chart Rwanda’s reconstruction from liberation to the present—work that also helps counter denial and distortion of the genocide."

Students, staff, and community members gathered at the University of Rwanda – Rukara Campus to take part in the Kwibuka 31 commemoration ceremony, honoring the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and reaffirming their commitment to remembrance, unity, and peace.

The Acting Principal reaffirmed the university’s mission in shaping a new generation of responsible leaders : "We see the youth as the strength and the future of our nation. We are training tomorrow’s professionals and leaders. We encourage them to love their country and avoid drifting through life without direction."

Building a peaceful and resilient nation, Prof. Nsanganwimana added, requires more than just education—it demands intentional values and a forward-looking mindset. "We must strive to leave the world better than we found it. That means advocating for, and building, a society grounded in unity and resilience—and that begins with a positive mindset."

He also connected remembrance to Rwanda’s long-term development goals, emphasizing the importance of aligning national efforts with frameworks such as Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1, 2024–2029). "Let us remain focused on our development vision while keeping in mind that progress must be underpinned by ethical leadership and shared responsibility," he stated.

Acknowledging the painful legacy of the past, he stressed the importance of resilience : "Though challenges remain—poverty, harmful mindsets, and the weight of our past—if we stand united, we will prevail," he said, citing the leadership of the RPF Inkotanyi in steering the nation toward growth and reconciliation.

In conclusion, Prof. Nsanganwimana reaffirmed UR-CE’s commitment to national healing and remembrance. "As a teacher‑training institution, we say : Never again. We will continue to educate our youth, partner with government and civil society, and safeguard the wellbeing of survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi."

Story by
NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac
PRO, UR-CE