The Adventist University of Central Africa celebrated its 31st graduation ceremony at its main campus in Masoro, Gasabo District, with 728 graduates (52% male and 48% female) across various programmes, while recognising top-performing students from different faculties. Graduates earned degrees in various fields; namely Bachelor of Theology, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Education, and Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, as well as Master of Business Administration, Master of Education, and Master of Science. Speaking at the event, AUCA Vice Chancellor Dr Pacifique Nizeyimana emphasised the university’s commitment to producing graduates who combine academic excellence with moral character. “As we embrace the future, may we hold onto integrity, wisdom, and truth, for these are the foundations that will sustain us through every change,” he said. Nizeyimana reflected on the value of moral integrity over skills alone. “Skills can be taught, but integrity, compassion, and honesty must be cultivated from within,” he said, highlighting AUCA’s mission of nurturing professionals who are not only competent but also guided by biblical values and inspired by service. Dr Hesron Byilingiro, the president of the Rwanda Union Mission and chairperson of the AUCA Council, reflected on the university’s resilience and growth since its founding in 1984 in Mudende. “This is the 31st edition of such memorable moments at AUCA. From its beginnings until the eve of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the university has endured and thrived,” he said. He encouraged graduates to carry AUCA’s values into their professional and personal lives. “Whether your studies were near or far, moral values will count in everything you do. Employment may come immediately or take time, but always be good ambassadors of this institution and the government. Above all, uphold the name of Jesus for your salvation and God’s glory,” he said, urging alumni to inspire future generations and contribute to the university’s continued growth. Representing the graduating class, Micheline Nshuti Manzi described the personal and professional transformation students experienced at AUCA. “We arrived as students uncertain of who we were. We leave as nurses, educators, business professionals, theologians, and technology experts ready to serve and innovate. This transformation makes today so meaningful,” she said, thanking the faculty for preparing them for purposeful lives. AUCA is a Seventh-day Adventist university that nurtures the mental, spiritual, social, and physical growth of its staff and students. Guided by Bible-based values, the institution emphasises moral integrity, critical thinking, and social responsibility. The university also hosts the Adventist School of Medicine of East-Central Africa at its Masoro campus, training mission-oriented doctors for Rwanda and the region under its motto, “Teach, Preach and Heal.” AUCA’s programmes are accredited by Rwanda’s Higher Education Council and international church bodies, including the International Board of Education (IBE) and the Adventist Accrediting Association (AAA), with accreditation reviews conducted every four years to ensure quality standards. Dr Blasious Ruguri, the president of the East-Central Africa Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and AUCA chancellor, delivered a message to the government of Rwanda via Edward Kadozi, Director General of the Higher Education Council. “I believe you will let the minister know that we are not doing anything inferior on this campus,” he said, highlighting AUCA’s innovative programmes, including the Master of Science in Big Data Analytics. “You are current, top, excellent, and number one,” he added, praising the university’s academic leadership. Dr Lisa Beardsley Hardy, Director of Education at the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, celebrated AUCA’s role within the global Adventist education system, which includes over 10,500 schools and 118 universities worldwide. “We thank you for what you are doing here as part of the group, educating over 2.3 million students globally. We also bring gifts for your library, including resources in creation science,” she said. She conveyed congratulations from Pastor Erton Köhler, President of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and commended faculty for their mentorship. “Today, we stand on holy ground, not merely because we gather on a campus dedicated to learning, service, and faith, but because God has brought us to this moment of transformation,” she said. Proud parents also shared their joy. Aloys Badege Habineza celebrated his daughter, Grace Batamuriza, who graduated with a master’s degree. “Learning is a good investment, and you cannot achieve big things without hard work. Rwanda’s good governance has laid a solid foundation for education, and AUCA is trusted even by international students,” he said. Aisha Mukandoli attended to support her daughter, Shakila Ishimwe. “This school equips students well, and they are often employed quickly. I encourage other parents to consider AUCA for their children,” she said. Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Education, Edward Kadozi, Director General of the Higher Education Council, commended both the graduates and AUCA for their contribution to national development. “Since its establishment, AUCA has become a pillar of Rwanda’s higher education landscape. Graduates are contributing across the public, private, and social sectors. The Higher Education Council remains committed to ensuring AUCA delivers education that meets Rwanda’s development needs,” he said. Founded in 1978 and operational from 1984 in Mudende, AUCA was Rwanda’s first private university and has since grown into a leading institution recognised for academic precision, principled leadership, and spiritual grounding.
