University students have been urged to be disciplined and work hard in order to succeed in their studies and in life after school.

Prof Mabel Imbuga, the vice-chancellor of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), said issues like drug abuse, laziness, exam malpractices and alcoholism are potent habits that spell doom for any student.

"The future of education in Rwanda is bright and we are here to provide you the skills you need to excel locally and internationally. However, discipline should always be part of your identity if you want to exploit your capacity and capability to achieve excellence,” she said.

Prof Imbuga made the remarks while addressing JKUAT – Kigali campus students and staff this week.

She reiterated the need for students to work hard, saying the university does not tolerate laziness that results into malpractices during examinations or research.

She also urged students to avoid unnecessary and unproductive relationships, saying it is important for them to first concentrate on studies.

"If your friends want to take you to blind dates, shun them because that means they are not good enough for you. Such kind of relationships will distract you from your main goal of acquiring an education and right skills,” she counselled. 

Dr Wilson Cheruiyot, the Kigali campus director, said the meeting sought to instill confidence among students, and assure them that the university treats all its students equally. Cheruiyot took over the role at the Kigali campus recently.

"The students and staff are also happy to meet the authorities from the headquarters,” he added

During the meeting, students called on the administration to provide more reading space and books, among others.

Library and laboratory equipment shortage as well as school fees harmonisation are among the issues most voiced during the meeting but the board promised the students to come up with the solution as soon as possible. 

JKUAT Kigali campus has over 1,900 students, 1,345 of whom are undertaking post-graduate studies in different faculties and programmes. The campus opened its doors to the Rwandan community three years ago.

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