Championing student voices : Irakoze’s journey in leadership and advocacy
- 20-05-2026
- 361
UR Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kayihura M. Didas, received the leadership of the Retired University Staff Association (RUSA) for discussions aimed at strengthening collaboration. The meeting focused on identifying practical ways through which retired academic staff can continue to contribute their wealth of expertise and professional experience to teaching, research, and community engagement.
Both parties reflected on the existing Memorandum of Understanding and explored strategies to enhance its implementation. Particular attention was given to creating structured opportunities for retired staff to support ongoing academic programs, mentor early-career academics, and participate in interdisciplinary research initiatives.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Kayihura emphasized the value of leveraging the experience of retired scholars. He noted that their continued involvement could significantly strengthen research capacity, especially through collaboration with current university staff to address pressing societal challenges.
“Retired researchers possess invaluable knowledge and experience. By working alongside our academic staff, they can contribute meaningfully to finding solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing our communities,” he said.
Discussions also highlighted priority areas for collaboration, including early prevention and detection of diseases, as well as research on prevalent health challenges such as cancer and other non-communicable diseases. Participants noted that these areas could benefit greatly from well-coordinated research and community awareness campaigns.
Given that RUSA members come from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, their engagement is expected to enhance multidisciplinary approaches to research and outreach. Their strong connection to communities, combined with years of experience, positions them well to support impactful initiatives that bridge academia and society.
The meeting reaffirmed the University of Rwanda’s commitment to inclusive collaboration, recognizing retired staff as a vital resource in advancing its mission of teaching, research, and community service.
