National

Kigali Independent University (ULK) students have petitioned the administration to drop the method of presenting their dissertation before a panel (known locally as ‘defence’), saying it is an old system no longer used by the majority of tertiary institutions in the country.

Speaking during the varsity’s Accountability Day, students urged the management to integrate the new system, where students write a dissertation which, after being approved by their supervisors, is handed to a panel which marks it.

Presently, ULK students have to face a panel and defend their dissertations.

“We are wondering why management doesn’t drop this system.  You find yourself passing the dissertation but end up losing marks while defending it. This is unnecessary,” said one of the students.

However, ULK Rector, Dr Ezecheil Sekibibi, said the institution will not drop what the students called an old system, saying it is added value.

“Defending a dissertation enables a student to develop good skills; they develop skills that those who don’t defend their thesis lack. And we want to produce quality products,” Sekibibi said.

He also warned students against plagiarising dissertations. ULK has so far expelled 21 students since last year over the practice.

Rwigamba Balinda, president of ULK, said his institution will not tolerate undisciplined students.

“We want to produce God-fearing products. So if a student does not abide by the rules and regulations of the campus, then it is better he or she looks for another university,” he warned.

Contact email: fred.ndoli[at]newtimes.co.rw