To conclude the 2025–2026 academic year, AIMS Rwanda graduated 43 students from the Regular Master’s Programme in mathematical sciences at a ceremony held on June 26th, 2026, at the Kigali Convention Centre. 

The graduation ceremony brought together government officials, academic leaders, international partners, lecturers, and families to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class (representing 11 African nationalities and comprised of 20 women) and their contributions to Africa’s growing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) ecosystem.

Throughout their time at AIMS Rwanda, these graduates combined academic study with research, entrepreneurship, leadership opportunities, and community engagement. Their experiences extended beyond the classroom, preparing them to navigate rapidly changing industries while building the skills needed to create sustainable impact in their communities and professions.

To support their learning, they were guided by 35 visiting lecturers from 25 universities, alongside 11 teaching assistants who provided round-the-clock academic support and mentorship.

This year’s graduation was more than a celebration of academic excellence. It was a celebration of purpose, leadership, collaboration, and the responsibility that comes with knowledge.

Among the key speakers was our Centre President and AIMS Network President, Prof. Sam Yala, who reminded graduates that the world needs more than intelligence. “It needs people who are ethical, resilient, collaborative, and committed to making a difference.”

Representing the Class of 2026, Lucas Mirija Razafimanantsoa reflected on the cohort’s defining strength and collaborative spirit.

“We arrived here as strangers, and somewhere along the way, we became something closer to family… This is what no machine or AI will ever replace, the beautiful way human beings hold each other up.”

He emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that the cohort learned that success is rarely achieved alone.

“The world needs us, not as spectators, but as actors; not as people afraid to choose, but as people who jump and learn how to swim.”

We were also honoured to host Mr Ntwali Ivan, Country Director of the Mastercard Foundation Rwanda, whose message challenged graduates to decide the difference they will make in Africa’s future. We were equally inspired by Professor Jodi Mead‘s keynote, encouraging graduates to embrace uncertainty in their road to success and impact. 

“My advice for the next stage of your career? Do not follow a formula.”

Closing out the ceremony, our Guest of Honour, Mr Pascal Gatabazi, Chief Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Education Rwanda, reminded the graduating class that knowledge always comes with responsibility.

Gatabazi also commended the strong representation of women among the graduates, noting that it sends a powerful message to girls across Africa that sciences and mathematics belong to everyone.

As our graduates received their diplomas and special Excellence awards from our partners, they marked not only the end of an extraordinary year but the beginning of a lifelong journey of scientific leadership and impact.

Congratulations to the AIMS Rwanda Class of 2026. We look forward to seeing how you will shape Africa and the world. Welcome to the AIMS Alumni Community!