Vice-Chancellor, Mount Kigali University: Dr. Martin Kimemia

Vice-Chancellor, Mount Kigali University:Dr. Martin Kimemia

Installation Ceremony of the Chancellor, Prof. Egara Kabaji
Date: 10th October 2025
Venue: Kigali Paramount Hotel – Main Hall

1. Opening and Gratitude

“Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.” – John C. Maxwell

It is with immense honor and deep gratitude that I welcome everyone gathered here to witness this defining moment in Mount Kigali University’s history. To His Excellency, the Chancellor, Prof. Egara Kabaji; the Chairman of the University Governing Body, Dr. Innocent Mugisha; esteemed faculty, staff, students, and our valued guests—I salute you. Your presence today embodies our shared commitment to academic excellence and transformative leadership.

2. The Essence of Visionary Leadership

“A leader’s job is to look into the future and see the organization, not as it is, but as it should be.” – Jack Welch

Our university stands at a crossroads of unprecedented opportunity. As Vice Chancellor, I believe that visionary leadership is the catalyst that propels institutions from good to great. Under the stewardship of Prof. Kabaji, we will harness intellectual rigor, innovative research, and ethical governance to redefine higher education in Africa.

3. Driving Academic Innovation and Excellence

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

Mount Kigali University is not merely a place of learning—it is a laboratory of ideas, innovation, and discovery. We are committed to continuously reviewing and enhancing our curricula to reflect the dynamic global landscape. Our academic programmes will be anchored in interdisciplinary approaches, ensuring graduates are not just skilled but visionary change-makers.

4. Championing Research, Writing, and Intellectual Inquiry

“Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose.” – Zora Neale Hurston

At the core of our mission is a robust research culture. I pledge to champion an environment where scholarly writing and intellectual inquiry are celebrated, supported, and disseminated. By fostering collaboration and providing cutting-edge resources, we will empower our faculty and students to produce work that influences policy, industry, and society at large.

5. Harnessing Technology and Digital Transformation

“Technology is best when it brings people together.” – Matt Mullenweg

We live in an era defined by rapid technological change. To remain competitive and relevant, Mount Kigali University must embrace digital transformation across teaching, learning, and administration. Our investment in smart classrooms, ICT infrastructure, and e-learning platforms will expand access, improve quality, and enable personalized education.

6. Fostering Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey

Our university’s purpose transcends academic walls. We are deeply committed to engaging with local communities, addressing societal challenges, and fostering sustainable development. Through outreach, partnerships, and service-learning, our students and staff will become agents of positive change, embodying the spirit of Ubuntu.

7. Strengthening Global Partnerships and Collaboration

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – African Proverb

No institution can thrive in isolation. We will expand our global networks, deepen industry linkages, and cultivate international collaborations. These strategic alliances will enhance research funding, student mobility, and innovation capacity, positioning Mount Kigali University as a continental leader with a global footprint.

8. Empowering Students as Future Leaders

“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

Our students are the heart of this institution. It is our solemn duty to provide them with an education that sharpens their intellect, hones their character, and equips them with entrepreneurial and leadership skills. We will foster a supportive environment that encourages curiosity, resilience, and ethical leadership, preparing them to thrive in complex, ever-changing environments.

Closing

In conclusion, I affirm my unwavering commitment to working hand in hand with His Excellency, the Chancellor, the Board, faculty, students, and all stakeholders to transform Mount Kigali University into a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and social impact. Together, we shall rise—boldly, ambitiously, and with purpose.

Thank you. God bless you all, and God bless Mount Kigali University.