Musanze, 31 May 2024

On 31^st May 2024, the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDFCSC) organized a graduation dinner for students of SCSC 12, Faculty Staff, and their respective spouses, to celebrate achievements after a yearlong successful training.

The Commandant welcomed the invited guests to the celebration and expressed gratitude to all of them for choosing to join the College faculty and students on that evening.

The Guest of Honour for the occasion was the RDF Army Chief of Staff (ACOS), Maj Gen Vincent NYAKARUNDI. Other distinguished guests at the graduation dinner included the Executive Secretary of Northern Province, RDF Generals and Senior Officers, the Director of Rwanda Peace Academy, the Representative of the Commandant of the National Police College, Spouses, and family relatives of both students and faculty.

On behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the Army Chief of Staff took the opportunity to extend greetings, well wishes, and congratulations to the students for the successful completion of the prestigious military course. He commended their effort, resilience, grit, and achievements while on the course and most importantly their discipline.

The ACOS making his remarks.

He said “The future holds immense opportunities in a world that is constantly evolving. It is therefore critical that we seek knowledge, embrace new experiences, and seize the opportunity that come your way. This is only possible if we are ready to keep learning for self-improvement. Your journey is just beginning and you have the potential to achieve greatness.” He concluded his remarks by thanking the Commandant and the entire College fraternity for their contribution towards making the college a centre of excellence in military training and education. The College was also lauded for continuing to fulfill its mission of imparting the required intellectual and professional standards and competencies to the Rwandan and other African Senior Officers who join for the career training.

Welcome remarks by the Comdt Brig Gen Andrew Nyamvumba.

In his remarks, the Comdt said “As we prepare for the graduation ceremony of this course, the college fraternity wishes to express its sincere appreciation for the relentless support that the RDF HQ puts into ensuring that the course runs successfully”. He thanked the faculty members along with allied directing staff for the role they played in shaping the senior officers in various fields related to the management of defence forces as well as individual character development.  He also thanked the allied students for being part of the college and sharing their experiences and expertise. “The students have brought unique experiences, cultural insights, and innovative ideas that have contributed immensely to the intellectual discourse within the learning. Their willingness to collaborate, learn, and grow alongside national students has been truly inspiring”, he concluded.

On behalf of the allied students, Lt Col Shem NAKORA from Uganda

in his Speech said “It is a privilege and honor to be here tonight representing the allied students from various countries here at Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College. This regional makeup is a testimony to the regional standing of RDFCSC. I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the RDF Leadership and the government of Rwanda, the faculty, and staff, for providing us with this exceptional opportunity to enhance our military knowledge, and skills, and foster lasting friendships. Throughout this course, we have had the privilege of learning from distinguished faculty members both from the University of Rwanda and the College Staff and engaging in thought-provoking discussions with our fellow students. The knowledge and insights gained from these interactions have been invaluable, enabling us to acquire a deeper understanding of the complex challenges facing our world today.”

“As a representative of allied students, I would like to express their deepest gratitude to the RDFCSC, the faculty, supporting staff, and fellow National students for an unforgettable journey filled with shared experiences, knowledge, and camaraderie”, he continued.

On behalf of his fellow student officers of SCSC 12, Col Pascal MUNYANKINDI”,

the Course Senior student said “It is with great honor and humility, as we gather here tonight, to be with you as we celebrate the culmination of 45 weeks of intense training and dedication at the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College. Senior Command and Staff Course 12 is comprised of 49 student officers including 15 allied students, one each from Botswana, Ethiopia, Malawi, and Senegal, and 2 each from Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. The rest are from RDF including 2 officers from RNP. The course is a true testament to diversity”. He continued “We assure you that the training package and exposure experienced here have not only enhanced our skills but also renewed our steadfast commitment to this noble security career. To our dear Faculty members, your expertise, patience, and willingness to impart your knowledge have not only shaped us as commanders but have also instilled in us a deeper understanding of discipline, strategy, and teamwork.”

Lt Col Philip MULUMBA, the outgoing DS from Kenya, expressed his gratitude to the College and the student fraternity for the knowledge and experience gained during his 2 years tour of duty.

The dinner was graced by the Army Band and the cultural troupe “Inganzo Ngari” who put up an exciting performance.