Labor Day Celebrations at INES-Ruhengeri: A Reflection on Work, Commitment, and Future Prospects

On the 1st of May 2024, the staff of INES-Ruhengeri gathered at the Classic Hotel to celebrate Labor Day. It was a day filled with joy, reflection, and appreciation for the dedication and hard work that form the backbone of INES-Ruhengeri's achievements.

Photo: INES-Ruhengeri staff after playing games on Labor Day.

Fr. Dr. Jean Bosco Baribeshya, the Vice-Chancellor of INES-Ruhengeri, delivered a stirring speech that encapsulated the spirit of the day. He began by acknowledging the significance of Labor Day, a day dedicated to honoring workers and celebrating their contributions to the institution's success.

Quoting Greek writer Sophocles, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized the pivotal role of labor in fostering prosperity. He urged everyone to celebrate their collective efforts, recognizing that without their dedication, INES-Ruhengeri could not thrive.

The speech delved into several key themes:

1. Shared Vision and Commitment: Fr. Dr. Jean Bosco Baribeshya thanked the staff for embracing a common vision centered on providing quality education and prioritizing the well-being of students. He urged them to treat every student as their own, guiding them toward fulfilling their dreams.

2. Enthusiasm and Professionalism: He applauded the staff's enthusiasm for their work, emphasizing that their dedication should be a source of honor and fulfillment. Their profession was portrayed as a vocation rather than just a job, highlighting the importance of finding joy and purpose in what they do.

3. Service Excellence: Recognizing the competitive nature of the modern world, the Vice-Chancellor commended the staff for their commitment to providing excellent service and care to clients. He stressed the value of quality education in shaping a bright future for Africa, particularly Rwanda.

4. International Collaboration: Acknowledging the international staff, the speech praised their contributions as good Pan-Africanists, honoring the continent and the world through their work at INES-Ruhengeri.

5. Teamwork and Intellectual Freedom: Emphasizing the importance of teamwork and intellectual freedom, Fr. Dr. Jean Bosco Baribeshya encouraged collaboration while fostering an environment that nurtures creativity, innovation, and respect for diverse ideas.

6. Skills for the Future: Looking ahead, the speech highlighted essential skills such as artificial intelligence, emotional intelligence, tech proficiency, and social media marketing. The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the need to align curriculum with industry demands and engage in industry partnerships for enhanced learning experiences.

Voices from the Community:

Adding to the celebration, several staff members shared their joy and gratitude for being part of INES-Ruhengeri's vibrant community.

Dr. Nfor N. Nde Nyambi, a Cameroonian with a Ph.D. in Public Law, expressed his enthusiasm: "Being part of INES-Ruhengeri is a unique experience. The location is perfect for academia, and the practical opportunities provided here are unparalleled. I'm grateful for the leadership's efforts in fostering such a positive and inclusive environment."

Mr. Lucas Wamalwa Wanangeye from Kenya echoed these sentiments: "INES-Ruhengeri embraces diversity and offers a supportive community. The practical approach to education here ensures that we are preparing our students for real-world challenges."

Mary Lys IRAKOZE, a Rwandan staff member, added: "I am proud to be part of INES-Ruhengeri. The leadership's dedication to creating a positive working environment has a significant impact on our daily lives and our ability to deliver quality education."

The speech concluded with a call to action, urging everyone to deliver their best, provide joy and happiness through their work, and ensure a good standard of living for themselves and their families.

Labor Day at INES-Ruhengeri was not just a celebration but a moment of reflection, gratitude, and forward-thinking. It reinforced the institution's commitment to excellence, service, and preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.