Kigali Independent University and ULK Polytechnic Institute welcome new students in the Ceremony marking the start of the 2025–2026 Academic Year
On Monday, October 6, 2025, Kigali Independent University (ULK) and ULK Polytechnic Institute (UPI) welcomed both new and returning students in a ceremony to mark the beginning of the 2025–2026 academic year.
The ceremony was attended by the Founder and President ULK, Prof. Dr. Rwigamba Balinda, the Chancellor of ULK, Prof. Dr. Kayishema Jean Marie Vianney, the Vice Chancellor of ULK Dr. Cyprien Sikubwabo, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics Prof. Martins Onuorah Onyekwelu and the Principal of ULK Polytechnic Institute (UPI), Eng. Musabyimana Jean Pierre among other officials.
In his address, Prof. Dr. Rwigamba Balinda reminded those present of the principles, values, norms, and the vision of ULK and UPI in promoting quality education rooted in ethics and integrity. He emphasized that the university prioritizes delivering quality education so that its graduates become exemplary individuals who contribute positively to their countries. He noted that ULK and UPI do not only serve Rwandan students but also host students from various other African countries and beyond.
He stated:
“Every day we strive to do everything possible to provide our students with quality education that aligns with modern global standards. That is why we recruit many highly qualified lecturers from Rwanda and other countries like Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, and more. We also have well-equipped infrastructure, including traditional and digital libraries, modern computers, excellent classrooms, and sports facilities. All of this is provided at a high standard. We also collaborate with various institutions, both within Rwanda and internationally.”
He added that as the university continues to align its mission with global innovation trends and labor market demands, new academic programs have been introduced alongside the existing ones. Particularly at UPI, Bachelor of Technology (BTEC) programs in Construction Technology, Land Surveying, Electrical Technology and Electronics & Telecommunication Technology at the A0 level have been launched in various technical fields.
He also announced the launch of seven new Master’s programs including Master of Business Administration in specializations of Finance, Accounting, Human Resource Management, Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Project Management and Master of Software Engineering, with student registration already underway and still ongoing. Furthermore, student accommodation is available, equipped with high-speed internet, water, and electricity, ensuring students live in a conducive and comfortable learning environment.
All of these efforts, he said, are aimed at finding solutions that ensure students learn effectively, in peace, and with happiness receiving a high-quality education of international standard.
Dr. Cyprien Sikubwabo, the Vice Chancellor of ULK, thanked the attendees on behalf of the university’s leadership and reaffirmed their commitment to working together to deliver and promote quality education in Rwanda.
The Principal of UPI, Eng. Musabyimana Jean Pierre, also warmly welcomed and thanked the students and staff for their collaboration in ensuring that the knowledge imparted is practical and beneficial, which helps students become outstanding. He also pledged full cooperation on behalf of the institution’s leadership.
Finally, the leadership of both ULK and UPI expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Education, particularly through its agency HEC (Higher Education Council), for their continued good collaboration with ULK and UPI.
