A total of 779 students have graduated from East Africa University Rwanda (EAUR), with university leaders urging them to use their qualifications to create jobs, solve social problems and contribute to the country’s development rather than wait for employers to hire them.
The graduates, including 439 women, received their degrees on October 29, 2026, during the university’s seventh graduation ceremony held at Ntare Arena in Rusororo, Gasabo District.
EAUR Vice-Chancellor Professor Calixte Kabera challenged the graduates to turn their academic knowledge into practical solutions, stressing that completing university should mark the beginning of their contribution to society.
“Do not wait for change; create it. Do not wait for jobs; create opportunities,” Kabera told the graduates.
He said employers and communities needed graduates who could apply what they had learned, work professionally and develop ideas that respond to real challenges.
Kabera added that the university would continue improving the quality of its education and aligning programmes with labour-market needs. He also highlighted research, innovation, technology and stronger partnerships as priorities for preparing students for the changing world of work.
“The country needs your knowledge, innovation and commitment,” he said, urging graduates to continue learning and to work with integrity and professionalism.
Professor Silas Lwakabamba, regional operations director at Coventry University in the United Kingdom, also encouraged the graduates to approach the labour market with confidence while recognising that academic qualifications alone do not guarantee success.
He said professional conduct, including punctuality, responsibility and doing work properly even when no one is watching, was essential in the workplace.
“Knowledge helps us understand problems, while good conduct helps us find the right ways to solve them. Education becomes valuable when you use it to improve other people’s lives,” Lwakabamba said.
He urged the graduates to use their skills to strengthen the organisations they join and identify opportunities in Rwanda and abroad.
Lwakabamba also encouraged them to use technology to develop opportunities rather than allow it to become a distraction or obstacle. He advised them not to give up when faced with difficulties, but to learn from others and correct their mistakes.
EAUR, which began operating in 2015, has graduated more than 2,400 students, according to information provided at the ceremony.
