The Institute of Applied Sciences, better known as INES-Ruhengeri, held its 17th graduation ceremony on Friday, October 31, at its main campus in Musanze District, celebrating the academic achievements of 1,479 graduates who were awarded bachelor’s and master’s degrees across various disciplines.

The master’s programmes produced 64 graduates.

Of the 1,479 graduates, 768 are female (51.9%) and 711 are male (48.1%), reflecting INES-Ruhengeri’s continued commitment to gender equity and inclusion. This year’s ceremony also highlighted the institution’s expanding international profile, with 112 international students (7.6%) representing 21 countries. The latter is a reflection of INES-Ruhengeri’s steady progress toward becoming a truly global university.

Fr Dr Jean-Bosco Baribeshya, Vice Chancellor of INES-Ruhengeri, congratulated the Class of 2025 and extended heartfelt appreciation to all partners, parents, and friends who continue to support the university’s mission of transforming lives through Applied Sciences education.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor noted that the importance of education that transcends traditional boundaries and education today must go beyond simply transmitting knowledge.

"The world needs lifelong learners, innovators, and job creators who have the courage to transform societies and create opportunities for others,” he said.

Baribeshya outlined the university’s new strategic plan built on three core pillars that aim to make the campus a true hub of Applied Sciences and a leading force in changing the world.

He mentioned that the first pillar, "Internationalization,” aims to expand global networks and enrich academic experiences through partnerships and diversity.

"Technology-Based Delivery” is another pillar that focuses on integrating digital tools and modern teaching methods to enhance quality and accessibility.

In addition, the "Learning for SMART Jobs” pillar seeks to equip students with practical skills, entrepreneurship, and innovation relevant to 21st-century workplaces.

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INES-Ruhengeri has over 6,000 students, and this year saw an increase in international graduates, 112 out of 1,200. Baribeshya noted that the university has invested enough in harmonizing diversity within the campus.

Since quality education is a common ground, he said, INES has not only excelled in Rwanda but has also succeeded in attracting many students from foreign countries.

"We have dedicated staff who take care of them on a daily basis, with designated offices that handle their affairs. We make sure everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging,” he said.

Facts observation, females made up the majority of the best-performing students, accounting for 51 per cent. The Vice Chancellor highlighted the positive impact of girls’ schools such as FAWE Girls and organizations that promote inclusiveness and support girls’ access to education.

"It’s part of our obligation to empower girls in science. We always encourage them to dare and do it with purpose. That’s why many of them have outperformed their counterparts,” he said.

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Anne-Marie Mushimiyimana, who graduated from the Department of Law under the Faculty of Law and Public Administration and emerged as the best performer, attributed her success to the university’s administration, which she said has elevated INES to international standards.

"I’m ready to give my all to my country. Justice has been stable in Rwanda, and where there are people, there must be justice for harmony. We have veterans in the field, and we’re eager to join them and contribute our part. With the knowledge we’ve gained here, I’m confident about making a positive contribution,” she said.

Rimijo Rado, a South Sudanese national, traveled to attend the graduation of his two sons, both among his eight children studying in Rwanda. He said he brought them to Rwanda for four reasons: security, quality education, affordability, and good living standards.

"They’re performing very well. If you compare Rwanda to other nations, it’s totally different. That’s what motivated me to bring them here. We commend the country’s security and hope it continues. This is a stable country,” he said.

INES Ruhengeri has departments across several faculties, including Applied Fundamental Sciences – with departments such as Computer Science, Civil Engineering, and Biomedical Laboratory Sciences.

Economics, Social Sciences, and Management – offering programs like Enterprise Management and Applied Economics, Education – with specializations in French and English Education and Law and Public Administration – focusing on legal and governance studies.

Theoneste Ndikubwimana, Head of the General Higher Education Quality Standards Department and the chief guest, urged graduates that having knowledge without discipline and integrity in the job market equals nothing.

"We beseech them to uphold integrity, a core value every Rwandan must have. They need to do what is right and avoid what is wrong, while striving to be the best and most productive,” he said.

"They should also keep updating themselves with new skills, especially as the world continues to evolve. They shouldn’t wait for employment opportunities; instead, they should be innovative and contribute to the government’s initiatives,” he added.