Mount Kigali University (MKU) hosted a public dialogue with students and members of the University community to mark the International Day of Democracy. The event brought together national leaders and young people for discussions on democratic participation, political decision-making, national development and human rights. The dialogue featured Hon. Senator Dr Charles Murigande and Hon. Senator MUKABALISA Germaine. They engaged students on the role young people can play in shaping society and participating in matters of national importance.
The engagement was held under the theme, “The Role of Youth in Consensus-Based Democracy and Diverse Political Ideas: Human Rights at the Forefront.” The theme placed particular emphasis on youth participation, dialogue, diverse political ideas and respect for human rights. It is significant that Mount Kigali University hosts the International Day of Democracy dialogue with students as part of Rwanda’s 2026 activities to mark this occasion. The Senate of the Republic of Rwanda coordinated activities involving selected institutions, including higher learning institutions. Additionally, the Senate’s official communication indicated that Mount Kigali University was among the institutions selected to host the programme on 15 September 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Addressing students, Hon Senator Dr Charles Murigande encouraged young people to recognise their responsibility in contributing to the country’s development and participating in public affairs. Reflecting on his own experience returning to Rwanda after working and studying in the United States, Senator Murigande spoke about his decision to contribute to Rwanda’s reconstruction following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. “So we want you to start participating at your young age.” He encouraged students to look beyond their individual aspirations. He asked them to consider how their knowledge, skills and choices could contribute to Rwanda’s continued development. He also urged young people to participate in conversations about the country’s future. In this context, Mount Kigali University’s events, including those focused on the International Day of Democracy, provide a unique platform for a meaningful dialogue with students.
Hon. Senator MUKABALISA Germaine highlighted the importance of youth engagement in political and diplomatic affairs. She noted that decisions made in public and diplomatic spaces can affect the wider population. Additionally, she encouraged young people to become informed and engaged in matters of public interest. As demonstrated during the event, Mount Kigali University hosts International Day of Democracy dialogue with students annually, showcasing an emphasis on youth participation, expressing views, and engaging in constructive public discourse. Her message emphasised that youth participation extends beyond holding political positions. It can also include expressing views, engaging in dialogue, understanding public affairs and ensuring that the interests and aspirations of young people are represented.
The dialogue also highlighted the role of universities as spaces where young people can encounter different perspectives, engage with national leaders and connect academic learning with wider societal issues. Speaking on behalf of Mount Kigali University, Dr John Nyiligira, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance, Planning and Institutional Advancement, emphasised the importance of exposing students to conversations that connect their academic experience with national and global issues. It is clear that Mount Kigali University hosts International Day of Democracy Dialogue with Students to encourage knowledge acquisition alongside real-world interaction. He noted that universities have a responsibility to equip students with knowledge, critical-thinking skills and opportunities for constructive engagement. Therefore, this helps them become responsible citizens and contributors to national development.
The discussion also reinforced the importance of respect for human dignity, rights and freedoms, as well as constructive engagement with diverse political ideas and the use of dialogue and consensus when addressing differences. The International Day of Democracy engagement forms part of Mount Kigali University’s broader approach to student development. Interestingly, Mount Kigali University hosts International Day of Democracy Dialogue with Students by creating opportunities for learning beyond the classroom, interaction with practitioners and leaders, and engagement with societal matters. As Rwanda marked the International Day of Democracy, the dialogue at Mount Kigali University provided students with a platform to listen, question, reflect and consider the role they can play in the country’s present and future.
