Eighty-one officers from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) have graduated from the Gako Military Academy with bachelor’s degrees in disciplines ranging from medicine to military science, marking a milestone in the country’s military education program.
The ceremony, held Monday at the academy in Bugesera District, celebrated graduates from the University of Rwanda’s class of 2025. Among them were 20 lieutenants who completed studies in medicine and 61 second lieutenants who specialized in military science and humanities.
Senior government and security officials attended the event, including Minister of Defence Juvenal Marizamunda, Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana, RDF Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Mubarakh Muganga, and Rwanda Investigation Bureau Secretary General Col. Pacifique Kayigamba Kabanda.
Lt. Dr. Eugene Parfait Ruhirwa, a graduate in medicine and surgery, and Second Lt. Christian Izere, who studied military science and humanities, were recognized as the top performers in their respective programs.
Brig. Gen. Franco Rutagengwa, the academy’s commandant, commended the graduates for their dedication and urged them to use their skills to strengthen Rwanda’s defence capabilities.
“They have both academic and military knowledge, and are capable of addressing society’s pressing challenges,” Rutagengwa said. “The knowledge you have acquired is the foundation for building a resilient military, fulfilling leadership responsibilities, and protecting the public.”
Prof. Didas Kayihura Muganga, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of University of Rwanda told the graduates they had chosen a path of service to others. “It is a calling, and your expertise will rescue those in distress and heal the wounded,” he said.
Marizamunda reminded the officers that they carry the trust of the nation as they begin their service. “You are entering a changing world faced with challenges such as cybercrime and climate change,” he said. “I am confident that your education has prepared you to confront these challenges. The future is in your hands.”
Graduates said the training they received would enable them to carry out their duties more professionally.
The Gako Military Academy has partnered with the University of Rwanda since 2015 to offer degrees in military science and humanities, medicine, and mechanical and energy engineering. In 2020, the curriculum expanded to include mathematics, physics, biology, law, nursing, and mechanical engineering.
