Heroism is not about how many classes or courses you attended but how many sacrifices you make in the interest of the community. The remarks were made on Thursday by Patrick Mugisha, an official from Chancellery of Heroes National Orders and Decorations of Honors (CHENO), during a meeting with students and staff of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Kigali Campus. He said,” you can be a hero no matter how educated you are. However, not anyone can be a hero. It is all about how human you are. But education is a key tool that can shape you to do heroic acts.” Dr Cheruiyot Wilson, the University Director, said the meeting reminded students and staff of the need to do things which can leave lasting impact. “Start to learn from our past heroes to build the country’s future as there are so many things that people can do for the country to become a hero,” he said. Juliet Mutoni, the students’ representative said such discussions should be held more regularly to enlighten youth about heroism. “We should meet elders whenever we need them as they have a lot to share with us about heroism. Their support, as our role models, is needed to prepare ourselves into future heroes as we need to grow with heroism spirit,” she said. Jean Damascene Rwasamirera, a former Member of Parliament, said the youth should follow in the past heroes’ footsteps. “It is not easy to be hero, you fight for it. Society looks at people with inspirational and impressive deeds. Students should therefore give their all to become a hero, as an honour of pride,” he said. The heroism discussions was organised in line with today’s National Heroes’ Day celebrations. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
