By M, KNA
Mount Kigali University (MKU), Rwanda, is poised for a new era of academic excellence and institutional growth following the inauguration of renowned Kenyan scholar, Prof Egara Kabaji, as its first Chancellor.
The institution marked a historic milestone, ushering in a new visionary leadership phase aimed at strengthening research, innovation, and continental partnerships.
Prof. Kabaji, a celebrated literary scholar and educationist with over three decades of experience, pledged to elevate the university’s academic reputation through enhanced research output and global networking.
He announced a donation of 22 million Rwandan francs to establish two internationally indexed academic journals and a university press, both initiatives expected to position the institution as a hub for scholarly writing and publication in the region.
In his acceptance speech during his inauguration in Rwanda yesterday, Prof. Kabaji urged African universities to increase their contribution to global knowledge, noting that the continent currently accounts for less than three per cent of the world’s scientific publications. “Let us write. Let us research. Let us publish. Let us dream,” he said.
Mount Kigali University’s leadership hailed the appointment as a turning point for the institution.
Prof Simon Gicharu, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors for Mount Kigali and Mount Kenya Universities, described Prof. Kabaji as a scholar of great intellect and moral conviction whose vision aligns with the university’s goal of nurturing impactful graduates.
“Prof. Kabaji’s passion for writing, publishing, and academic mentoring gives our university a definite compass and mission. His influence will expand our academic networks across the continent,” he said.
The university has in recent years embarked on an ambitious expansion programme to support its growing student population and improve service delivery.
These developments include the construction of an eight-storey tuition block, a modern administration complex, new student hostels, the Kigali Paramount Hotel for hospitality training, and a state-of-the-art University Medical Centre.
Other facilities such as Royal FM, a student-run media platform, and the creation of University Gardens and a wastewater treatment facility demonstrate MKU’s commitment to holistic learning and sustainability.
Looking ahead, the university plans to introduce Masters and PhD programmes, establish centres of excellence in entrepreneurship and digital innovation, and host Pan-African research conferences.
