Championing student voices : Irakoze’s journey in leadership and advocacy

Irakoze Bienvenue Delice, a third-year Nursing student at the University of Rwanda’s Rwamagana Campus, is making a meaningful impact through her commitment to student leadership and advocacy. She currently serves as the General Secretary of her campus and the Secretary of the Board of Speakers for the University of Rwanda Student Union, positions that enable her to represent students’ interests and address their concerns at both campus and university levels.

Through these leadership roles, Irakoze works closely with students and university administrators to promote a supportive learning environment and enhance student welfare. One of the key issues she is currently advocating for is achieving a better balance between the growing student population and the number of academic staff, recognizing the direct impact this has on the quality of education.

Irakoze Bienvenue Delice, is a third-year Nursing student at Rwamagana Campus

“A strong investment in infrastructure, such as classroom complexes, alongside the recruitment of more lecturers, will help the University maintain academic standards and ensure students receive the quality education they deserve,” says Irakoze.

She is also actively engaged in discussions aimed at improving the overall campus environment by advocating for adequate infrastructure and sufficient human resources to support students academically and through extracurricular activities.

“Knowledge is not limited to classroom learning. Integrating various skills-development opportunities helps nurture well-rounded students and ensures that no aspect of their growth is left behind,” she adds.

As a future healthcare professional, Irakoze plans to work as a registered nurse in a clinical setting after graduation, where she will apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout her studies to provide quality patient care. Looking ahead, she aspires to take on leadership and advocacy roles in healthcare education and policy, contributing to the improvement of health systems and educational opportunities.

She also hopes to pursue advanced studies in Nursing or Public Health and eventually become a lecturer or mentor. Through this path, she aims to help train future generations of nurses who are not only competent and compassionate but also well-supported throughout their academic and professional journeys.

For Irakoze, leadership is more than holding a position ; it is about creating positive change, amplifying student voices, and contributing to a stronger university community while preparing to make a lasting impact in the healthcare sector.