Over 1250 staff and students of Kigali Independent University (ULK), on Saturday, visited Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, Gisozi, to pay tribute to victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Dr Sylvestre Karambizi, the vice chancellor in charge of research and post-graduate studies, said Genocide commemoration is very meaningful, especially for universities meant to shape future Rwandan leaders.

"It is important for every Rwandan to remember the bad history that led to the Genocide 21 years ago. It is time to reflect on our past and together we work for the country’s vision. It’s a collective responsibility to foster peace and unity,” Dr Karambizi said.

He also warned students against segregation and genocide ideology, saying Rwandans should look forward to building a bright future for posterity.

"Our country was destroyed and we have to think of how to rebuild it by fostering unity and love among our students, for them to teach and share these values with the future generation,” he said.

Jessica Kwibuka, a student survivor, urged students to keep sharing the country’s history with the younger generation in order to keep the memory alive and to avoid past mistakes.

"It is important for students to remember the bad history of Rwanda. The commemoration teaches us many things, including how it was planned and implemented. It is an opportunity for students who were born after the Genocide to know what happened in our country,” she said.

"It is also an honour to our parents, friends, brothers and sisters who were killed.”