Former students of the Faculty of Social, Economic Sciences and Business Management at Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK) have urged current undergraduates to pursue their studies with purpose, integrity, and discipline key values they say paved the way for their own professional success.
During today’s career mentorship session organized by ICK, alumni who have gone on to work in various sectors shared their experiences with students in Accounting, Finance, and Sociology.
The event is part of the ICK’s ongoing effort to bridge the gap between current students and alumni to help them prepare for the job market.
Among the speakers were Jonas Akimana, Partnerships Officer at the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC); Chantal Uwamariya, CEO of CPF INEZA; Thierry Mucyo, cash supervisor at Equity Bank Muhanga; Esperance Nyirandabamenye, Assistant HR at Muhanga District; and Jean Baptiste Kayiranga, Loan officer at Inyange SACCO in Ngororero District.
In their remarks, the professionals emphasized that success after university requires more than academic excellence just demands clear goals, strong ethics, and soft skills.
“Studying at ICK is a privilege. This institution is known not just for providing knowledge, but also for nurturing character,” said Akimana. “When employers hear you studied here, they trust you. But that trust comes from how you conduct yourself.”
He encouraged students to develop clear academic and career goals, while also learning foreign languages to adapt to a globalized job market.
“Sometimes, you’ll work with people who don’t speak Kinyarwanda. I didn’t study languages, but I’ve had to work with foreigners. Learning other languages has really helped me,” he added.
Kayiranga urged students to remain focused and not fear unemployment.
“Jobs are available. Don’t panic. Just study hard. If you chose to be here, give it your all, because the world you’re entering is highly competitive,” he said.
Uwamariya, who studied at ICK while working full-time, shared how she managed to balance both responsibilities and complete her studies without repeating a single course. She has since earned a master’s degree and now provides internship opportunities to ICK students.
“Set your goals early. Know what you want,” she advised. “It pained me to see students repeating courses simply because they didn’t take them seriously.”
Students at the event said they found the session eye-opening and motivating.
“This talk really encouraged us and helped us understand the current job market,” said Dina Nyiransabimana, a second-year Finance student. “I now know the importance of patience while waiting for a job and being proactive in how I prepare for it.”
Regine Umuhoza, a second-year Accounting student, echoed that sentiment:
“From today on, I’ll be more focused in class, manage my time better, and avoid distractions like using my phone during lessons.”
Innocent Rutsibuka, a lecturer and head of the department in charge of career guidance at ICK, thanked the guests and reinforced their message.
“In today’s world, you can’t afford to drift without direction,” he said. “The pace of change, especially in technology, is rapid. You must set clear goals or risk falling behind. Knowledge alone is not enough—it must be matched with discipline and the ability to work well with others.”
This session marked the third alumni visit, following last engagements with graduates from the Journalism and Education departments. The initiative is part of ICK’s larger mission to support students in transitioning smoothly into the professional world by connecting them with role models who once sat in the same classrooms.
