At least 192 senior educationists from public and private higher institutions of learning, on Sunday started a one-week civic education training course (Itorero).

The course is underway at Gabiro RDF Combat Training Centre in Gatsibo District and it is being conducted under the theme; "Higher education at the forefront of national transformation.”

The Minister for Education, Prof. Silas Lwakabamba, who presided over the opening expressed gratitude to the management of the Gabiro facility for hosting the training and the National Itorero Commission (NIC) for facilitating it.

The minister said Itorero helps foster patriotism, hard work and a culture of integrity.

"Itorero has had great impact on society. We have no doubt the participants will greatly benefit,” he said.

Besides civic education, the educationists are expected to reflect on the quality and relevance of the education they offer and other related aspects.

The minister challenged the participants to reflect on the influence university graduates make on society’s socio-economic transformation.

Dr Usta Kayitesi, the principal for the College of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Rwanda, said the training was relevant to the faculty members.

"Our students went through Itorero. It is, therefore, incumbent upon us to train as well…otherwise we risk becoming obstacles to their pursuits.”

Boniface Rucagu, the chairman of the National Itorero Commission, reiterated the need for the dons to use their knowledge to contribute toward national development.

"Scholars have had a negative impact to our nation; some perpetuated the Genocide against the Tutsi,” he said, adding that they can redeem themselves by helping to mold a better nation.

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