Prof. Deo Kambanda, a respected academic and former Rector of the University of Rwanda—then known as the National University of Rwanda (UNR) from late 1994 to 1996—passed away on Sunday, August 11, at around 2 a.m. He was 90 years old and had been receiving treatment at King Faisal Hospital following a brief illness.
Between 1966 and 1968, Prof. Kambanda taught at the Groupe Scolaire Officiel de Butare before joining the Institut Pédagogique National (IPN) in 1968. He furthered his education by earning a PhD from the University of Maryland, likely between 1977 and 1979.
Colleagues remember him as a dedicated leader who passionately nurtured young talent and helped students turn their dreams into reality. He was also a pioneer in promoting gender balance during a period when such ideals were not yet widely embraced.
“In 1987, I first met him as a lecturer at Nyakinama campus, where he taught at the Faculté des Sciences Psychologie et de l’Éducation,” recalled Dr. Innocent Twagirimana, Dean of the School of Education at the University of Rwanda. “He was a man who loved everyone and brought a remarkable sense of humor to his interactions. Students truly enjoyed his classes.”
Dr. Twagirimana added, “Beyond academics, he was deeply committed to teaching morals and values. He tirelessly supported students who survived the Genocide against the Tutsi.”
Dr. Pradva Mfurankunda, a lecturer in the School of Arts and Languages, who first knew Kambanda shortly after the genocide while completing his undergraduate studies, reflected on his character and impact. In 1998, as a fellow lecturer, he had the privilege of working closely with him across various academic platforms.
“He was a man of exceptional human qualities—approachable, warm, and deeply connected to both students and colleagues,” Mfurankunda said. “He was never seen as a distant authority figure, but rather as a humble scholar whose humor and kindness left a lasting impression. He was also a truly bilingual intellectual, fluent in both English and French.”
“His legacy is one of intellect, humility, and unwavering dedication to education,” he added.
Prince Ruzigana / The Kaminuza Star