FEATURED: “Discipline will take you far”, former Chief Justice Ntezilyayo tells learners

Former Chief Justice Faustin Ntezilyayo told learners that “discipline is essential in achieving success” and that it can “take individuals further than knowledge, skills, or talent alone could. He urged students to embrace this mind-set in their academic journey, emphasising that “they are nothing without discipline. He delivered this message on March 20 at Groupe Scolaire St François d’Assise Mpushi in Kamonyi District, Southern Province, during the launch of the “Nawe Wagera Kure” (You Too Can Go Far) campaign. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Education (MINEDUC), aims to inspire Rwandan primary school students by connecting them with accomplished role models—many of whom once attended the same schools. Through personal stories of perseverance and success, the campaign encourages students to stay in school, work hard, and overcome academic challenges. “Discipline comes first in everything. You shouldn’t be discouraged when you are punished for a mistake you actually made. This happens to everyone. You need to have a plan in life and work towards it. God has given us many good choices—let’s choose the best one,” he noted. ALSO READ: Tom Close inspires Kibondo students: Believe you can surpass your role models Ntezilyayo, born on August 20, 1962, in Busoro and raised in Nyarubuye, attended the school from 1968 to 1975. After his father’s passing in 1973, he wanted to drop out, but his uncle insisted he continue. In 1974 failed his national exams and refused to repeat the class, but his uncle again pushed him to try. Determined, he excelled the following year and was among the top five students admitted to St. Joseph, Kabgayi, later enrolling in Byimana. Reflecting on his journey, he emphasised the importance of “having a plan and visionary parents”, urging students to “stay disciplined and never give up on education.” “Nothing should make you drop out. Whether it’s hunger, harassment, bad advice, or anything else. Your future is in your hands,” he said. Having been involved in Rwanda’s judiciary system, he noted that over 70 per cent of people in correctional facilities did not complete Primary Six. “It’s saddening because many of them likely faced similar challenges and chose to give up, only to end up breaking the law and engaging in wrong activities. Don’t follow the same path. There are many opportunities, and they are yours too,” he added. Florah Mutezigaju, the Deputy Director of the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB), argues that most people fail to reach their dreams due to their limitations because many have successfully overcome obstacles to achieve their goals, proving that challenges can be conquered. “Those who are successful were able to stand tall against the obstacles they faced. If they hadn’t, they wouldn’t have made it,” she said. Sister Thérèse Nyirabemera, the School Director, commended the initiative, particularly the alumni who continue to support the school’s development. She highlighted their contributions, including the recently completed main hall and other projects in the pipeline. However, she raised concern over the lack of electrification, which has hindered the development and use of computer skills, especially for students in A Level. She believes that access to electricity could open up more opportunities in terms of services, skills, and time management. Ntezilyayo served as Rwanda’s Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court from December 6, 2019, to December 3, 2024. He holds a Ph.D. in law from the University of Antwerp, along with advanced degrees in law and international affairs from universities in Belgium and Canada. His career began as a law lecturer at the National University of Rwanda in 1986. He later held roles as Rwanda’s Minister of Justice (1996–1999), Vice Governor of the National Bank (2000–2003), and Managing Director of the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Agency (2003–2005). He also served as a judge at the East African Court of Justice (2013–2020) and worked with institutions like the World Bank and the UN. Additionally, he has experience in the private sector, having led AGASEKE Bank (2011–2013) and practiced arbitration.

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FEATURED: “Discipline will take you far”, former Chief Justice Ntezilyayo tells learners