On the occasion of commemoration of the 29th Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994 in Rwanda, different institutions are organizing genocide commemoration events within 100 days from April 7^th to July 4^th. After having the commemoration at PIASS in the weekend of 20&21 May, on June 9^th, PIASS organized a study visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial (KGM) in which 60 student representatives as well as the staff of the University were involved. The head of the delegation was Rev. Dr. Viateur HABARUREMA the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics at PIASS.

This study trip aimed at helping our students gain a deeper understanding of the history of the genocide against the Tutsis, and help them to reflect of the journey towards healing and reconstruction of Rwanda. On the way to Kigali, they first visited the Nyanza Genocide Memorial in which over 34.000 bodies are resting.

Getting orientation at Nyanza Genocide Memorial (Nyanza District)

This memorial is located in Nyanza District, Southern Province of Rwanda. At this place, they were explained the history of the genocide in Nyanza (the former Nyabisindu Municipality, Butare Prefecture). They paid tribute to the Tutsis who were resting in the memorial and laid wreath on it.

Laying a wreaths on Nyanza Genocide Memorial

In the afternoon, they arrived at Kigali Genocide Memorial. KGM is the final resting – place for over 250.000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The visit was an impressive experience to students as they could learn the history of Rwanda especially its journey towards healing and reconstruction.

Honoring victims of the Genocide against Tutsi at KGM

Daniel IRUMVA who represents students of the Faculty of Theology said “The trip gave me an opportunity to learn about the history of Rwanda, and to commemorate at the same time. It was also impressive experience which inspired me in reflecting on my contribution in fighting against any kind of discrimination, and encourage young generations to build a nation free from violence and promote peace and unity.”

Bernard NEREKIMANA who represents the students of the Faculty of Education said “Visiting Kigali Genocide Memorial challenged my knowledge about what happened in Rwanda. It made me thinking on the bad governance our country had, which lead Rwanda to the darkness of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. I realized that good governance is the pillar of sustainable peace and development.”

Visits like this will continue in the future so that our students because not only to help them to learn more about Rwandan history, but also it provides them with a room for reflecting about the past and from that they can shape a better future.

Family Photo at KGM

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Editor: MUVUNYI Serge