Students at the University of Rwanda, Huye Campus, were today urged to prevent and avoid all forms of corruption during Public Talk, an awareness event organized by campus on every Wednesday.
The October 22 session brought together students lawmakers, university officials and students to discuss the dangers and consequences of corruption in society.
MP De Bonheur Jean d’Arc reminded students that, “corruption is harmful and slows down our national development.”
Initiatives like Agafata, Kamwe, Kukuramutsa, and Kwibwiriza have been introduced to reduce corruption, but students are also urged to be aware of sexual corruption.
“Some lecturers may ask female students to sleep with them in exchange for grades or academic promotion. This must stop, and you must remain vigilant,” Jean d’Arc said.
“Your integrity is your most valuable asset. Never exchange it for temporary gains, no matter how tempting it may seem,” she added.
Honorable Emmanuel Havugimana also addressed the students, saying, “When you receive corruption, there is no peace of mind. You get what you do not truly deserve. Sometimes people cannot even deposit corrupt money into official bank accounts because they fear investigations. Corruption destroys your conscience and your future.”
He expressed optimism about Rwanda’s progress in fighting corruption.
“Rwanda can reach the level of Botswana, which is currently ranked first in Africa for preventing corruption. With continuous awareness and strong enforcement, we can achieve that,” he said.
Students reflected on the lessons learned from the session. Rukundo Janvier, a second-year Accounting student, said, “I have benefited a lot from today’s session. I have decided to avoid any form of corruption because it may bring temporary gains, but it ruins your integrity and future.”
Joanna Uwineza, a third-year Economics student, added, “The session helped me understand how to avoid sexual corruption. I now know the importance of standing firm and reporting any misconduct instead of being exploited.”
According to Rwanda’s Law No. 54/2018 on Combating Corruption, anyone found guilty of corruption faces imprisonment of between five and seven years and fines up to ten times the value of the bribe involved. Public officials face even harsher penalties, including dismissal and permanent disqualification from public service.
Rwanda continues to make progress in transparency efforts. According to Transparency International’s 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index, Rwanda scored 53 out of 100, ranking among Africa’s least corrupt nations, proof of its growing commitment to integrity and accountability.
Pichou Byiringiro / The Kaminuza Star