UR mourns its staff and students killed in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi

As the global community, with Rwanda at the forefront marks the 30th anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi, the University of Rwanda organized a night vigil and a commemorative event to honor its faculty and students killed in 1994. The Event was presided over by Professor Ngabitsinze Jean Chrysostome, the Minister of Trade and Industry.

Prof. Ngabitsinze Jean Chrysostome, the Minister of Trade and Industry

In his address, Prof. Ngabitsinze remarked that the loss of lives within the university community indicated a lack of wisdom, as would normally be expected at a university.
He urged participants to view halting genocide as evidence that it is possible to confront and defeat evil individuals and their actions. Prof. Ngabitsinze further urged attendees to diligently strive to ensure that today’s youth can reshape this dark chapter of history.
"So let us be fair as we teach, assess, and mentor them, guided by the principle of equal opportunity," said Minister Ngabitsinze.

Dr Raymond Ndikumana, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Raymond Ndikumana appreciated participants who stood with the University of Rwanda for their support during the difficult period. He added that while the university commemorates, it should also focus on rebuilding and positioning itself as a source of hope and problem-solving within society.

"The UR should be exemplary in upholding and disseminating the culture of humanity, leading to unity and harmony among Rwandans ; becoming the shining light and transformative agents in the country," said Raymond Ndikumana, who is the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration.

During the commemoration, it was observed that staff and students of the National University of Rwanda actively participated in the Genocide against the Tutsi. Professors, who could have instilled national unity among the youth, instead propagated hatred against the Tutsi.

In addition to the night vigil, the commemoration also featured a "walk to remember" ; a symbol of remembrance and solidarity with the victims and survivors of the genocide.

Participants participated in in Walk to remember

Night Vigil