REMARKS BY VICE-CHANCELLOR, UNIVERSITY OF KIGALI, DURING THE OFFICIAL THREE-DAYS VISIT TO UOK-MUSANZE CAMPUS.
(The Vice Chancellor of the University of Kigali, Prof. George KIMATHI, addressing the students and staff at Musanze Campus )
From Thursday, October 10th to 12th, 2024, The University of Kigali- Musanze campus was abuzz with excitement as the esteemed Vice-Chancellor (VC), Professor George KIMATHI, accompanied by the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics(DVCA), and Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics(ADVCA), graced the institution with their presence on a two-day visit from July 10th to 12th, 2024. The visit held great significance as it provided an opportunity for the leadership to engage directly with students and staff, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration. The visit followed their recent appointments, aimed at meeting, interacting, and gaining first-hand insight into the activities and programs being implemented at the campus. Throughout the visit, the Vice Chancellor met with students from various study sessions including day, evening, and weekend. This inclusive approach ensured that a wide representation of the student body could interact directly with university leadership. Additionally, meetings were also held with dedicated staff members who play a crucial role in shaping the academic environment at the Musanze campus.
The visit followed their recent appointments, aimed at meeting, interacting, and gaining first-hand insight into the activities and programs being implemented at the campus. He assured the campus of support from the top management of the University to address ongoing challenges and urged campus administrators to work towards increasing student numbers. In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor expressed excitement about the visit, emphasizing its purpose of meeting people and understanding the unique circumstances of the Musanze Campus.
The Vice-Chancellor encouraged students to focus on their studies, take advantage of professional courses offered by the University of Kigali, especially the ICDL (International Certification in Digital Literacy), and maintain high values. The Vice-Chancellor was optimistic about additional enrollments by introducing some additional programs, such as Bachelor’s degrees in Education and Tourism, etc, which are highly requested at the campus.
In recognition of this momentous occasion during his welcoming remarks, Dr Leopord HAKIZIMANA, the Principal of Musanze Campus expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor and delegation, highlighting the staff’s enthusiasm for their presence. He provided an overview of the campus and briefed them on various challenges and strategies to overcome them. The campus principal noted that this gesture exemplified solidarity within UoK’s leadership, fostering a sense of unity and shared commitment toward the academic growth and success of the institution. The visit also served as an opportunity for students and staff to engage in open dialogue with university leadership, allowing for the exchange of ideas, concerns, and aspirations. This transparent communication channel is crucial in ensuring that all stakeholders feel heard and valued within the university community.
The Campus Principal’s word of welcome to the Vice Chancellor and delegation to address the students and staff
In brief remarks, Prof. Margaret Oloko, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, highlighted the importance of maintaining quality education. She suggested engaging students more and providing timely support in their academic pursuits, striving to promote academic excellence by maximizing resources for holistic development and mentorship of learners capable of critical thinking and independent positioning in the job market.
(Prof. Margaret Oloko, Deputy Vice-chancellor in charge of Academic affairs) informed students to abide by quality, standards, and values during their academic journey at UoK-MUSANZE CAMPUS as per HEC requirements
Addressing the students, Dr. Samuel Sindayigaya, The Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics, encouraged them to embrace the opportunities ahead, engage actively in their studies, and utilize the support systems available. He emphasized that choosing to learn at the University of Kigali is a significant step in further developing their academic disciplines. He acknowledged the dedication and hard work of the staff members, whose commitment to excellence in teaching and service forms the foundation of the University’s success.
(Dr. Samuel Sindayigaya, The Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics reminds the students about their obligations and rights.
The VC, DVCA, and ADVCA engaged with students and campus officials. Some concerns raised by students included the Complaints and Appeals Procedures, Through the VC office guidance, he stated that they are going to streamline and shorten the process for approving some critical matters at the campus level to avoid delays.
VC’s message and Interaction with the students from various schools alongside staff
This visit coincided with the end of customer service week, and the visitors joined students for a celebratory event that marked the conclusion of the week-long activities.
VC celebrating Customer Service Week with students and staff.
The VC (Prof. George KIMATHI) and his delegation, after a meeting with all UoK-MUSANZE CAMPUS Academic and Administrative staff and students
The Vice-Chancellor said: “As we conclude our time together, He expressed to all sessions that as they continue their academic journey, he encourages them to embrace challenges, stay curious, and never stop learning. The world is evolving rapidly, and it is up to them to adapt, innovate, and lead with integrity and resilience. He is sure to look forward to witnessing the remarkable achievements that will undoubtedly come from this vibrant and dynamic campus. Together, they will continue to build a strong and thriving university community that makes a difference in Rwanda and beyond. He thanked all the students once again for their hospitality and for being a source of inspiration and inviting them to keep striving for excellence and know that the entire university community is there to support them every step of the way after he closed the agenda by conveying the best wishes for their continued success.
The VC’s three-day visit ended on October 12th, 2024 with a tour of different classrooms and offices to notice the status of the needs as presented to him previously and promised to work on them and satisfy them shortly given the UoK’s available financial means.
The visit left an indelible mark on the UoK-MUSANZE CAMPUS, serving as a testament to UoK’s dedication to nurturing a supportive learning environment. The Vice Chancellor’s two-day visit has left a lasting impact on the UNIVERSITY OF KIGALI-MUSANZE CAMPUS by reinforcing its commitment to shaping not only strong academics but also ethical conduct among its student body. With such dedicated leadership at the helm, UoK remains poised to inspire its community towards continued growth and achievement in academia. Overall, the three-day visit was a resounding success, leaving the staff and students feeling valued and motivated.