UR community rallies behind national anti-corruption efforts

UR hosted an Anti-Corruption Awareness event that brought together the Deputy Ombudsman, university leaders, lecturers, and students in a collective effort to strengthen integrity and accountability within the academic community.

The event was attended by Mukama Abbas, Deputy Ombudsman from the Office of the Ombudsman Rwanda, alongside members of the University’s leadership.

Massive attendance to the event demonstrated the university community’s keen interest in the anti-corruption program

In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayihura Didas appreciated the strong turnout, noting that the massive attendance demonstrated the university community’s keen interest in the anti-corruption program. He emphasized that the fight against corruption is a shared responsibility and urged all members of the institution to play an active role in promoting ethical conduct.

Prof. Kayihura cautioned that when corruption is ignored, it undermines trust in institutions and slows down national development. As part of the University’s commitment to strengthening accountability, he announced the establishment of Anti-Corruption Committees across all campuses. The committees are expected to champion transparency, raise awareness, and encourage responsible behavior among students and staff.

Speaking during the session, Mukama Abbas commended the University for organizing the awareness event and engaging young people in discussions on integrity. He reminded students that they are the future leaders of the country and must therefore build strong ethical foundations early in life. He encouraged them to avoid all forms of corruption, including academic dishonesty, stressing that corruption often begins with small unethical actions that gradually escalate if left unchecked.

Mukama Abbas ; the deputy Ombudsman during his address

He further highlighted the importance of ethical leadership in combating corruption and encouraged students to emulate positive examples of discipline and accountability, including Paul Kagame, who is widely recognized for his stance against corruption.

The event concluded with the official commissioning of the Anti-Corruption Committees. Through this initiative, the University reaffirmed its commitment to promoting honesty, transparency, and responsible leadership across all its campuses.