Kigali, 2 September 2019

Good afternoon.

It gives me great pleasure to join you today for the inauguration of the Adventist School of Medicine of East-Central Africa.

We are especially honoured by the presence of Pastor Ted Wilson, the leader of the governing body of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

A warm welcome back to Rwanda.

Congratulations on this milestone, which is a most valuable addition to Rwanda’s education and health system.

Let me take this opportunity to salute the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Rwanda, for marking one hundred years of serving the spiritual and social needs of Rwandans.

During this time, the Church has been a valued partner of Government in the provision of healthcare and education.

A century of Adventist activity in Rwanda has demonstrated the positive impact of shared vision and good collaboration.

By fulfilling your pledge to establish a medical school serving East and Central Africa, you have reaffirmed your commitment to a productive partnership that benefits not only Rwanda but the entire region.

This is very much appreciated.

The achievement we are celebrating today is in tune with Rwanda’s goals.

Education, particularly in science and technology, as well as good, affordable healthcare, are the foundation of the well-being and prosperity of our citizens.

This requires qualified professionals, trained in high-quality universities, such as this one, which are equipped with the latest technology.

Medical students at this school will also benefit from the extensive network of Adventist institutions around the world, as well as association with a brand that stands for excellence.

Government will play its part, by continuing to invest in infrastructure, vocational skills, and a conducive policy environment.

On this note, let me add, as Dr. Ted said, many things are done by or through faith. He assured us that’s how we came to have what we witnessed today.

I want to make sure that it is understood that there is plenty of faith. We have more faith to keep going and keep doing more, in addition to what we have here in this school

By that, I also mean that we are going to partner with you, in making sure that the teaching hospital is realized faster than anyone thought.

We will find land. We will also find money, to add to what you have collected.

I think that we all need this teaching hospital sooner rather than later, so we will do it.

We are aware of the immeasurable value of higher education and good health, accompanied by a meaningful spiritual life.

When we put our talents and specialised knowledge at the service of others, the gift of education is multiplied many times over.

That is what the doctors trained here, are expected to do.

The Adventist University of Central Africa is, therefore, contributing to a brighter future for the people of our country and our region.

Allow me, once again, to thank the Seventh-day Adventist Church for sharing our vision, having faith in Rwanda’s future, and accompanying us on our journey of national transformation.

I wish to end by thanking you once again for being good partners, and also for your kind attention.